Oystercatcher Day – 9 June

Today, 9 June 2026, marks the first-ever Oystercatcher Day, a new international initiative officially launched on 19 May 2026 to raise awareness about oystercatchers and other beach-nesting shorebirds, and to highlight the importance of protecting coastal habitats and wetlands. The initiative was launched by ornithologist Gyorgy Szimuly, founder of World Shorebirds Day.

Oystercatchers belong to the family Haematopodidae, which includes around 12 species worldwide. They inhabit coastlines, mudflats, rocky shores, and coastal islands, and are among the most recognizable shorebirds because of their bright orange bills and distinctive calls.

Several species face increasing threats from habitat loss, coastal development, recreational activities, vehicle traffic on beaches, and the impacts of climate change and sea-level rise.

In Libya, one species has been recorded: the Eurasian Oystercatcher, a winter visitor to the Libyan coast. Like many shorebirds, it depends on coastal habitats during its migration cycle.

Oystercatcher Day is a reminder of the importance of protecting coasts, wetlands, and the habitats that support migratory and beach-nesting birds, helping to safeguard biodiversity for future generations.