Did you know that most birds migrate at night? They often use the moon, stars, and sun to navigate. Light pollution can interfere with these signals and cause a serious problem for birds: they might be thrown off course or become so disoriented that they circle until they fall to exhaustion or collide with buildings. You can help with just a flick of a switch—plus you’ll save money on energy costs! Turning the lights out during spring migration is part of a larger statewide effort called Lights Out Texas. Be part of the solution – learn more about Lights Out Texas today.
Texas is globally important for birds. Approximately 1 of every 3 birds migrating through the U.S. in spring, and 1 of every 4 bird migrating through the U.S. in the fall, or nearly two billion birds, pass through Texas. Protecting birds in Texas promotes conservation of bird populations across the Americas.
Ways to Protect Migrating Birds at Night
Turn off lights at night on unoccupied floors and in unused spaces.
Close curtains and blinds.
Turn off exterior floodlights during bird migration season.
Opt for shielded lighting that directs lights downward.
Try using task lighting at your workstation instead of overhead lights if you’re working late.
Migration Forecast
Want to know when birds will be flocking to our area? Lights Out Action Alerts provide daily local migration forecasts so you know what to expect each day and when you should turn your lights out.
Spring Migration 2022: How You Can Help Migrating Birds
Please turn out all non-essential lights from 11 p.m.–6 a.m. every night during migration season, from March 1 to June 15, especially during the peak migration period of April 22–May 12.
Learn more about Bird-Friendly Communities and Lights Out for Birds from the Houston Audubon.