Biologist explains why some migratory birds remain in Moscow

Chaffinches, thrushes and starlings still have enough food in Moscow and are not rushing to leave, biologist Dmitry Safonov told RIA Novosti.

Safonov said these birds eat plant foods as well as insects, allowing them to stay in the city longer. Migration routes also pass through Moscow, bringing birds that pause there during their journey. He cited woodcocks, which are listed in Moscow's Red Data Book and rest in parks and courtyards before continuing their flight.

The comments were published on October 10, World Migratory Bird Day. CMS confirms that the autumn observance in 2026 falls on the second Saturday of October. This year's campaign, Every Bird Counts – Your Observations Matter!, highlights residents' contribution to migration research and bird conservation. Their observations help track changes in bird populations and identify important places along migration routes.