Technique
Participants may use any embroidery technique. This includes, but is not limited to, traditional hand embroidery, cross-stitch, crewel, relief embroidery (stumpwork), or mixed embroidery techniques. Both beginner and advanced embroiderers are welcome to participate. Artwork must be original. 

Theme

Submissions should reflect the 2026 World Migratory Bird Day theme: “Every Bird Counts – Your Observations Matter.”

Entries may interpret this theme in creative and personal ways, including but not limited to:

• The role of community/citizen science in conservation and how everyday bird observations contribute to understanding and protecting migratory species
• Migratory birds and the journeys they undertake across continents, seasons, and habitats
• The connection between people and birds, and the ways individuals and communities support bird conservation
• Actions that help conserve migratory birds and protect their habitats
• “Observation” as both scientific contribution and an act of attention, care, and connection 
• The relationship between birds, landscapes, and shared environments, and how human activity shapes migration routes and survival
• Threats to migratory birds, such as habitat loss and pollution, and the importance of awareness and local action
• Cultural, symbolic, or personal meanings of birds, and how these stories support conservation action and appreciation of birds and nature as a whole
• The idea of interconnectedness, where each observation is a thread in a wider network of sites used by the birds, science, storytelling, and conservation
• Special consideration will be given to entries that feature one or more of the official 2026 World Migratory Bird Day ambassador bird species. These birds help represent the campaign and highlight the importance of migratory bird conservation worldwide.
• Artwork should clearly reflect a conservation and nature education theme of World Migratory Bird Day.

Original Work Requirement

All artwork must be the participant’s original creation. Submissions must not copy or closely reproduce another artist’s work. Finalists may be invited to present their artwork through a virtual call with the organizers.  

Submission Requirements

Participants must complete all required submission fields and forms. Incomplete submissions will not be considered. Entrants may also be asked to provide:

• A clear photograph or scan of the finished embroidery
• A short description of the piece and how it relates to this year’s World Migratory Bird Day theme
• A description of the techniques and materials used

Additional Guidelines

• Entries must be created specifically for this contest.
• By submitting, participants confirm that the work is their own and that they have permission to share it publicly.
• Selected works may be featured in World Migratory Bird Day communications, educational materials, or online galleries to help promote bird conservation.