Lights out for migratory birds at night

On April 28, 2023, over 21 million birds crossed South Carolina in a single night! Every year, billions of birds migrate north in the spring and south in the fall, the majority of them flying at night, navigating the night sky. The dark skies allow the migrating birds to avoid predators, take advantage of calmer air, and utilize the moon and stars for navigation.

NASA Earth Observatory image by Joshua Stevens

However, as they pass over communities and cities on their way, they can become disoriented by bright artificial lights and skyglow. Some birds become casualties of nighttime collisions with windows and walls. Others circle in confusion until dawn, when they land exhausted and are subject to other urban threats. This issue impacts hundreds of species, including priority species such as Wood Thrush and Seaside Sparrow.

In recognition of Dark Sky Week (April 2-8) and Spring World Migratory Day (May 11) we are inviting individuals and businesses across South Carolina to help our feathered friends on their long journeys with Lights Out South Carolina! Through taking collective action, we can help ensure that South Carolina skies provide safe passage. Here’s what you can do:

At home

· Turn off exterior decorative and nonessential lighting from 11:00 pm to 6:00 am from April 1 through June 1.

· Down-shield exterior lighting to eliminate horizontal glare and all light directed upward

· Install automatic motion sensors and controls wherever possible

At your business or office building

· Reduce atrium lighting wherever possible

· Turn off interior lighting especially on higher stories

· Down-shield exterior lighting to eliminate horizontal glare and all light directed upward

· When converting to new lighting assess quality and quantity of light needed, avoiding over-lighting with newer, brighter technology

· For buildings over 3 stories, use desk lamps or task lights instead of overhead lights at night

· Turn off lights on vacant floors

Want to monitor bird migration for South Carolina or your city? Check out Cornell’s BirdCast Migration Dashboard.