Turn off lights to protect migratory birds this spring

With birds now migrating for the spring, many organizations are taking part in Lights Out Texas, a state-wide initiative that asks Texans to turn off or dim non-essential lights during the critical peak spring migration period of April 19 through May 7.

Each light that is turned off during the peak spring migration period will help save migrating birds as they travel through Texas, as it will reduce their collisions with brightly lit buildings and will help them navigate the area.

“Every spring and fall, nearly two billion birds – between a quarter and a third of all birds migrating at night through the United States – travel through Texas in one of the planet’s great wildlife spectacles,” wrote former First Lady Laura Bush in a letter. “Light pollution is a growing and underrecognized threat to birds. The light emanating from our cities disorients the birds, leaving them confused and vulnerable to collisions with buildings. In fact, nearly one billion birds die in collisions with buildings annually in our country.”

Individuals, organizations and businesses in Hood County are asked to dim or turn off their non-essential lights from 11 p.m. until 6 a.m. during the migrating season.

The Lights Out Texas effort continues to grow daily and is led by a coalition that includes conservation non-profits, universities, governmental organizations and Texans dedicated to the conservation of birds.

“I know that you and all Texans care deeply about protecting wildlife and the ecosystems that will sustain us for generations to come,” Bush wrote. “Please join our efforts by turning out lights from April 19 – May 7. My vision is of a dark Texas sky, ensuring a safe flight for birds on their journey home.”

For more information, visit the Lights Out Texas website or send questions to info@texanbynature.org to learn more about how to get involved.