It’s that time of the year folks. That’s right, pumpkin spice lattes are in full swing, trees are going from brown to a darker shade of brown, and of course the fall bird migration.
Each year during the spring and fall, nearly two billion birds travel through the Texas night sky. As the birds pass over big cities they can become disoriented by bright artificial lights and sky glow, often causing them to crash into buildings + windows.
Enter Lights Out, Texas.
What is Lights Out, Texas?
The initiative was started in 2017 by the bird conservation organization, Audubon Texas and has since expanded state-wide with the help of Texan by Nature. The goal of Lights Out is to reduce migratory bird deaths by increasing awareness and participation of cities to turn off non-essential lights.
How can I participate?
San Antonians can help the birds in a variety of ways.
- Turning off non-essential lights nightly between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m.
- Not using landscape lighting in trees or gardens.
- Using light shields on home security systems.
- Closing the blinds to reduce light emission to the outdoors.
Do you or know someone who owns a non-residential building? They can get involved too with this kit of resources for businesses and buildings taller than three stories.
When is fall migration?
Fall migration began on Tuesday, Aug. 15 and runs through Thursday, Nov. 30. Peak migration takes place on Wednesday, Sept. 6 through Sunday, Oct. 29.
Ready to learn more? The Mitchell Lake Audubon Center on San Antonio’s South Side offers a wide range of community programs and activities from guided bird tours, to paint nights, and more. There’s something here for everyone to enjoy.