Turkmenistan Celebrates International Bird Day with Youth Competition and Environmental Initiatives

Ashgabat, The Gulf Observer: Today marks the celebration of International Bird Day, an environmental holiday that has grown in significance worldwide since its origins in the United States in 1894. The day, which became an official observance in many countries starting in 1906, highlights the importance of preserving bird species, especially those beneficial to agriculture.

In Turkmenistan, this annual celebration has been taking place since April 1, 2004, following the initiative of M.E. Gauzer, the founder of the country’s first Bird Lovers Club, “Bird Rights,” in Turkmenbashi. The celebration is particularly notable in the capital city of Ashgabat, where the National Museum of the State Cultural Center hosts events to honor the day.

This year, a ceremony was held on March 28 to honor the winners of the “World of Birds” competition, which engaged over 700 schoolchildren from Ashgabat. Thirty-seven students were recognized for their knowledge and creativity regarding bird species and their role in the ecosystem. The winners received congratulations from various dignitaries, including Bossan Ataeva from the National Museum, ornithologist Jumamurat Saparmuradov, and representatives from the Youth Organization of Turkmenistan and the Society for the Protection of Nature of Turkmenistan.

The competition and associated activities emphasize the importance of environmental education and raising awareness about bird conservation in Turkmenistan, as part of ongoing efforts to protect nature and foster a deeper connection to wildlife among the country’s youth.