Lights Out for Birds During Peak Migration

Lights Out for Fall Bird Migration!

Reduce lights at night to help migrating birds!   Every spring and fall, billions of birds migrate through North America, mostly under the cover of darkness. Unfortunately, they face an increasing threat: unnatural, man-made light.

Light attracts and disorients migrating birds, making them vulnerable to collisions with buildings. The solution is as simple as flipping the switch. Turning off lights dramatically reduces hazards and allows birds to safely proceed with their migratory journeys.

There are growing international "Lights Out" efforts already underway. Lights Out does more than save birds; it saves energy and money! The US Environmental Protection Agency highlights energy as the largest operating expense for commercial buildings.

Fall migration is underway now through December. Here are some ways you can keep the skies darker at night and help birds stay out of harm’s way:

Turn off non-essential lights from 11 PM until 6 AM during critical migration periods.

Turn off or dim commercial lobby and atrium lights.

Turn off or dim interior residential lighting or draw blinds to prevent light escaping.

Turn off decorative landscape lighting.

Turn off lights before leaving the home or office.

Be sure outside lights are aimed down and well shielded.

Switch outdoor bulbs to amber-colored bulbs.

Install motion sensors on outside lights to minimize use.