The trees are budding, the grass is green, and birds can be heard all around. Spring is finally in full swing. While winter can be a quieter season, New York is seeing the return of its migratory bird species.
As the weather starts to warm, birds begin to migrate back to New York. However, migration is not an easy task, as birds face numerous challenges, including predation, climate change, and other obstacles. One such obstacle is light pollution, which is excess of outdoor artificial nighttime lighting. The most noticeable effect of this is the reduced contrast in the night sky, making stars at night more difficult to see. Light pollution can be devastating for migrating birds. Excess lighting can disorient and attract birds from over 3 miles away. Birds then circle the lit area, wasting the energy needed to migrate and increasing their risk of collisions with buildings.
To help protect migrating birds from the effects of light pollution, State agencies are joining the Lights Out initiative. This initiative directs State-owned and managed buildings to turn off non-essential outdoor lighting from 11 p.m. to dawn during the spring and fall migration windows. State agencies are also encouraged to draw blinds and turn off non-essential indoor lighting. New Yorkers are encouraged to join the effort by turning off their non-essential outdoor lighting, as well.
Not only does the Lights Out initiative benefit birds, but it also helps protect the air. Energy use is one of the largest sources of greenhouse gas (GHG) in NYS. Turning off non-essential outdoor and indoor lighting can make a big difference in lowering statewide GHG levels. Consider joining the state’s efforts this spring to protect migrating birds, the environment, and our air.
