‘Lights Out’ For New York State Birds

If you leave your outdoor lights on overnight, New York State is asking you to think twice this spring.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the Office of General Services are encouraging residents to cut back on lighting as part of the nationwide Lights Out effort. The goal is to help protect migrating birds as they travel across the state.

Why Should We Shut Off Our Lights?

Every spring, millions of birds pass over New York at night, using the stars to guide them between seasonal habitats. But bright artificial lights can confuse them. This can cause birds to lose their way and even collide with buildings, windows, and other structures.

How Does It Affect Birds?

State officials say this issue, known as fatal light attraction, can turn deadly very quickly. In some cases, a single brightly lit building can lead to hundreds of bird deaths in just one night.

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To help reduce the risk, state-owned buildings are turning off non-essential indoor and outdoor lights and closing blinds between eleven at night and sunrise from April fifteenth through May thirty first.

New Yorkers Are Asked To Help

Residents are being asked to do the same at home when possible. Even small changes like turning off porch lights or dimming outdoor fixtures overnight can make a difference.

Environmental leaders say this is a simple step that can help protect wildlife. Birds play an important role in keeping ecosystems healthy, and reducing light pollution can help more of them complete their journey safely.