Birds are amazing. They look great, and even better, they make all kinds of sounds. From beautiful songs to hoarse croaks. Together they fill the world around us. 

People also look good and we are for sure very noisy. Together we take up a lot of space. Often at the expense of birds. But could we do without them? What would a world without birds sound like?

My challenge is to make a music video. Of people imitating birds. For that I need your help.

I envision a chorus of sounds from people around the world who impersonate birds. The ones you have in your backyard, play a role in your culture, or even your imaginary bird friends. You can sing, shout, whisper, play an instrument, or anything that you think works as a tribute. You can do it all by yourself or with family and friends. Make a video of your performance and send it in. Put together your videos will become one big celebration of birds.

All of us speaking up for birds will be a very powerful message. That birds are a source of joy and inspiration. That they are important to us. And that we want to see them protected. For a sneak preview have a look at the #NoiseForBirds trailer https://vimeo.com/432529760. 

Please also make a donation. Many birds are under huge pressure as landscapes no longer offer the food, rest and breeding places they need to survive. BirdLife Partners around the world are making every effort to protect birds and nature. These are extremely challenging times for many of them. Your donation will help BirdLife Partners to continue their important work. More about BirdLife International at https://www.birdlife.org/

Some tips for the video:  1) Have fun but respect the local rules about social distancing. 2) Essential to film as ‘landscape’. So image width larger than height. 3) Nice background if possible. 4) 10-15 seconds is enough. That’s all! 

Send your video to noiseforbirds.barend@gmail.com. In case your video is too large for e-mail, upload to  https://wetransfer.com/ and send me the link.  

Please share this challenge with your friends, family and colleagues. Great if you use #NoiseForBirds. 

Please also consider to make a donation to support BirdLife Partners. 

In times like these we all need to speak up for birds and nature. 

Thank you!

Barend

PS:  In case you are wondering: a donation without sending in a video is ofcourse also fine.

PPS:  Download the video trailer and some photos via 
https://we.tl/t-vPVQSD4Lwv