New York officials are urging residents and businesses to turn off non-essential lighting overnight as part of a statewide effort to protect migrating birds this spring.
The state Department of Environmental Conservation and Office of General Services said the “Lights Out” initiative is designed to reduce bird deaths caused by artificial lighting that can disorient birds as they travel through New York’s skies.
State-owned and managed buildings are being directed to turn off non-essential outdoor lighting between 11 p.m. and dawn from April 15 through May 31 during peak spring migration. Officials said the same measures will be in place again during fall migration from Aug. 15 through Nov. 15.
Experts say many species rely on the stars to navigate, and excessive lighting — especially during poor weather — can lead to fatal collisions with buildings and other structures. State officials noted that reducing lighting not only protects wildlife, but can also lower energy costs.
Officials are encouraging homeowners and businesses to take similar steps by limiting overnight lighting, drawing blinds, and making windows more visible to birds. Additional recommendations include planting native vegetation and removing invasive species to improve habitat.
New York sits along major migratory bird corridors, with millions of birds passing through the state each year.
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