BirdLife

World Migratory Day

Building Empathy for Migratory Birds

World Migratory Bird Day is a global campaign that raises awareness of the threats birds face from habitat loss, hunting and climate change.

BirdLife International asked us to create an animation that would increase empathy for migratory birds by highlighting the obstacles they encounter and the vital interdependence between birds and humans. The goal was to go beyond information, to move viewers emotionally and foster a deeper understanding of our shared connection through the lens of migration.

Illustration of a flock of birds flying across a softly lit sky at dawn or dusk, symbolizing migration and freedom in nature.

Illustration of a scenic viaduct with a train crossing above a river, birds flying through arches, and a goose floating on the water, set against a mountainous backdrop.

Illustration of a woman sitting alone on a train, gazing out the window at birds flying over a scenic countryside with rolling hills and a river.

Telling a Story Without Words

We created a silent animation with no voiceover or text to allow viewers space for personal interpretation and reflection. The film follows two parallel stories, one human, one bird, highlighting shared experiences of migration and connection. Shifts in perspective and pacing guide the viewer through key moments, adding movement and emotional depth. This visual-first approach helps humanise the bird’s journey, encouraging empathy and awareness of the threats migratory birds face due to climate change, habitat loss and human impact.

Person reading a news article on a smartphone about the COP 26 Climate Change Conference, featuring a woman speaker discussing habitat loss, with bird imagery in the background.

Woman and child standing near moving boxes, looking out a window at birds flying over a scenic landscape of hills and rivers during sunset.