Millions of birds undertake incredible journeys twice annually, flying between their breeding and wintering grounds. In North America alone, a remarkable 70% of bird species migrate, with 80% of these navigating under the cover of night, using the night sky as their Audubon Sky Guide. During daylight hours, these avian travelers depend on natural habitats to rest and replenish their energy reserves before continuing their nocturnal flights. However, the increasing presence of artificial light at night and skyglow emanating from urban areas poses a significant threat to these migrating birds.
Artificial lights confuse and disorient birds. Nighttime collisions with illuminated buildings become a deadly hazard. Some birds become trapped in circles of light, flying until dawn, only to land in urban environments devoid of essential resources and exposed to further urban dangers.
To address these growing challenges and ensure safe passage for migratory birds, the National Audubon Society has established the Bird-friendly Buildings program. This initiative, a key component of Audubon’s broader Bird-friendly Communities conservation strategy, actively works within communities to understand and lessen the harmful effects of artificial light on birds. Audubon’s dedicated staff and chapter leaders collaborate with cities, building managers, and local organizations to implement practical solutions like Lights Out programs. These programs are designed to minimize unnecessary and excessive lighting, particularly during peak migration seasons when countless birds are traversing the night sky.
In a significant step forward, Audubon is proud to announce a new alliance with the International Dark Sky Association (IDA), reinforcing the commitment to protect the night sky from the detrimental effects of light pollution. This partnership is a natural synergy, aligning Audubon’s mission to safeguard birds and their essential habitats – including the crucial element of a natural night sky – with IDA’s focused dedication to preserving nighttime darkness from artificial light.
By joining forces with IDA, Audubon aims to amplify and strengthen ongoing efforts to restore the natural state of the night sky. This collaboration will foster opportunities for joint initiatives and cooperation between local Audubon and IDA chapters. Crucially, this partnership will empower both organizations to equip their networks and the communities they serve with the necessary tools and resources to effectively protect the night sky for the benefit of both birds and people, ensuring the night sky remains a reliable audubon sky guide for generations to come.
