Help Migratory Birds

In the fall, many migratory birds begin the long journey back to where they spend the winter. Most birds travel these long distances at night. Bright nighttime lighting can disorient migrating birds, drawing them off course. Consider making these simple changes to help birds get to where they are going safely.

Birds in the sky

  • Turn off lights: Extinguish non-essential indoor and outdoor lights between 11 PM and 6 AM, especially during spring and fall migration periods.
  • Shield fixtures: Point outdoor lights straight down toward the ground rather than up into the sky.
  • Use warm bulbs: Switch to warm-colored LED lights such as amber because cool blue and white lights attract and confuse birds more.
  • Install controls: Use motion sensors, dimmers, or timers so outdoor lights stay off when not actively needed.
    Learn more about helping migratory birds