The term banding, also known as ringing in some countries, refers to the practice of placing a small, uniquely numbered band or ring around a bird’s leg. This is done primarily for research and conservation purposes. The bands help scientists and researchers track the bird’s movements, lifespan, population trends, and behavior over time.

Bird banding has been used for over a century as an effective way to study avian ecology. By attaching a lightweight, durable band to a bird, researchers can gather valuable data without causing harm to the bird. The bands are designed to stay on for the bird’s lifetime; they are carefully sized to ensure the bird can hunt, fly, and perch comfortably.

Banding is typically carried out by licensed professionals or trained volunteers. These experts use mist nets or other humane methods to safely catch birds. Once captured, the bird is identified, measured, weighed, and banded before being released. If the banded bird is later recaptured or the band is found, the unique ID number provides a wealth of information. For example, the data might reveal how far the bird has migrated, how long it has lived, or how its population is changing due to environmental factors.

There are two main types of bands:

1. Metal Bands: These are usually aluminum and include a unique number and the contact information of the organization managing the banding program.
2. Colored Bands: These are often used in combination with metal bands to allow researchers to identify birds from a distance without needing to recapture them. Colored bands may include small flaps or flags which make the numbers or letter and number combo easy to read in the field, without recapturing the bird.

Bird banding has contributed significantly to understanding migration patterns, breeding behaviors, and threats to bird populations. For instance, by studying the migration of Arctic Terns, researchers have discovered that these birds travel astonishing distances every year, from the Arctic to the Antarctic and back again. Banding data has also been crucial for identifying declining populations and informing conservation efforts. And nearly all of the data on bird longevity is known from banding efforts. A famous example is Wisdom, the Laysan Albatross who was banded as an adult in 1956, who is the oldest living bird at over 70 years old in 2024.

If you find a banded bird or a bird band, it’s essential to report it to the relevant authorities. In the United States, you can report bird bands to the USGS Bird Banding Laboratory. They will use the band number to learn about the bird’s history and add your report to the database, helping researchers with their studies. In most cases, they will also let you know about the bird's history.

Bird banding is an invaluable tool for understanding and protecting our feathered friends. It’s a small action that provides big insights into the fascinating world of birds.

For further study, we suggest reading What Scientists Have Learned from 100 Years of Bird Banding.

The Bald Eagle has long been synonymous with American ideals of freedom and strength. Its image graces the Great Seal of the United States, official documents, military insignia, and currency. However, it wasn't until December 24, 2024, that the Bald Eagle was officially designated as the national bird of the United States.

The journey to this official recognition spans nearly 250 years. In 1782, the Bald Eagle was adopted as the central image on the Great Seal, symbolizing the nation's ideals. Despite this prominent placement, no formal legislation had ever declared the Bald Eagle as the national bird. This oversight persisted until President Joe Biden signed the bill into law on Christmas Eve 2024, amending the United States Code to include the Bald Eagle's official status.

The legislation was introduced by Senator Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, a state renowned for its significant Bald Eagle population. The bill received bipartisan support, reflecting a unified acknowledgment of the Bald Eagle's symbolic importance. 

Historically, the Bald Eagle's selection as a national emblem was not without debate. Benjamin Franklin famously criticized the choice, favoring the Wild Turkey instead. In a letter to his daughter, Franklin described the Bald Eagle as a bird of "bad moral character," expressing his preference for the turkey, which he deemed more respectable.

Beyond its symbolic role, the Bald Eagle's conservation story is remarkable. By the mid-20th century, factors like habitat destruction, hunting, and pesticide use had driven the species to the brink of extinction. Conservation efforts, including the banning of DDT and legal protections, facilitated a significant recovery. In 2007, the Bald Eagle was removed from the threatened and endangered species list, and by 2020, the Bald Eagle population had reached approximately 316,700 individuals, a testament to successful preservation initiatives.

The official designation of the Bald Eagle as the national bird not only corrects a historical oversight but also reinforces the nation's commitment to preserving its natural heritage. As Jack Davis, co-chair of the National Bird Initiative for the National Eagle Center, aptly stated, "For nearly 250 years, we called the Bald Eagle the national bird when it wasn't. But now the title is official, and no bird is more deserving."

This formal recognition ensures that the Bald Eagle's legacy as a symbol of American freedom and resilience is enshrined for future generations.

Today's flashy new shorebird is known for breeding in remote parts of Siberia -- it's the Siberian Sand-Plover!

The Siberian Sand-Plover, known by several other names, including the Lesser Sand Plover, is a small, chunky wading bird that breeds in the high-altitude tundra of Siberia and Central Asia. This bird is well-adapted to its environment, and its remarkable long-distance migrations make it a fascinating species for bird enthusiasts worldwide.

Adult Siberian Sand Plovers are compact birds with a rounded body, a short black bill, and relatively long legs. During the breeding season, males sport a striking plumage with a chestnut-colored breast band, white underparts, and a black mask that contrasts with their sandy-brown upperparts. Females and non-breeding birds have more subdued coloration, which helps them blend into the coastal or sandy habitats they frequent during migration and winter.

The bird’s breeding grounds in Siberia are remote and harsh, consisting of rocky, high-altitude plateaus and tundra. Here, Siberian Sand-Plovers lay their eggs in shallow scrapes lined with moss or other vegetation. The precocial chicks are ready to leave the nest and forage soon after hatching.

Once the breeding season concludes, Siberian Sand-Plovers embark on incredible migratory journeys, traveling thousands of miles to their wintering grounds. They spend the winter in coastal zones around Australia and nearby islands. These migrations highlight their adaptability, as they shift from nesting on arid tundra to feeding on mudflats and sandy beaches.

During winter, the Siberian Sand-Plover is often spotted feeding in flocks, picking at crustaceans, insects, and other small invertebrates along the shoreline. Their diet varies with availability, and they are adept at finding food in intertidal zones.

Considered endangered with a decreasing population, the Siberian Sand-Plover faces threats from habitat loss, particularly along its migratory and wintering grounds. Coastal development, pollution, and climate change impact the mudflats and beaches essential for their survival. 

This resilient bird, with its impressive migrations and adaptability, is a true marvel of the avian world. Birdwatchers treasure the opportunity to observe Siberian Sand Plovers, whether in their remote breeding habitats or along the bustling shorelines of their wintering grounds.

Tomorrow’s Birdorable Bonanza introduces an Old World bird famous for its sneaky parenting style and iconic call that announces spring! Can you guess what it is? Share your guesses below! 🤔

Today's addition to our Birdorable flock is an endangered species of parrot, the beautiful Puerto Rican Amazon.

The Puerto Rican Amazon, also known as the Puerto Rican Parrot, is a Critically Endangered bird endemic to the island of Puerto Rico. Known for its vibrant green feathers, blue-tinted wings, and striking red forehead, this parrot is not only a beautiful sight but also an important symbol of Puerto Rico’s natural heritage. Unfortunately, its survival has been gravely threatened by habitat loss, natural disasters, and human activity.

Once abundant throughout Puerto Rico, the Puerto Rican Amazon's population plummeted in the 20th century. By the 1970s, only 13 individuals remained in the wild, making it one of the rarest birds in the world. Habitat destruction due to deforestation was a primary cause, as large areas of forest were cleared for agriculture and urban development. The parrots lost not only their food sources but also the old-growth trees with cavities that they used for nesting.

Conservation efforts began in earnest in the late 1960s and have been crucial in pulling the species back from the brink of extinction. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in collaboration with the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources and other organizations, launched a captive breeding and reintroduction program. Two aviaries, one in the Río Abajo State Forest and the other in the El Yunque National Forest, were established to breed parrots and prepare them for release into the wild.

The program has achieved significant milestones. By 2023, there were over 500 Puerto Rican Amazons, including both captive and wild populations. Despite these successes, the species remains vulnerable. Hurricanes, like Hurricane Maria in 2017, have posed severe setbacks, destroying habitat and wiping out reintroduced populations in some areas. In response, conservationists have worked to enhance hurricane resilience by planting native trees, creating artificial nesting cavities, and maintaining genetic diversity within the captive population.

Education and public engagement have also played a key role in the conservation of the Puerto Rican Amazon. By fostering pride in this iconic species, these efforts help reduce threats such as illegal poaching and habitat destruction. Local communities are encouraged to protect forests and support reforestation initiatives that benefit the parrots and other native species.

Despite the challenges, the Puerto Rican Amazon is a testament to the power of conservation. Its recovery, while still ongoing, is an inspiring story of collaboration and perseverance. Continued support and adaptive management will be essential to ensure this vibrant parrot once again thrives in its natural habitat.

Tomorrow’s Birdorable Bonanza reveals a bird so cool, it sounds like a superhero! This speedy predator loves twilight hunting and has a name that might make you think it fights crime at night. Can you guess what it is? 🤔 Na na na na na na na na na na na na na new bird! 🦇

Last year, your Birdorable team—Arthur and Amy—embarked on a three-week adventure across the diverse landscapes of South Africa. Our journey took us from the bustling streets of Johannesburg to the wild heart of the Kruger National Park, then down to the picturesque coastline of Cape Town and along the stunning Garden Route to Port Elizabeth, before circling back to Johannesburg. Along the way, we had the privilege of exploring several of the country’s breathtaking national parks, each offering its own unique encounters with Africa’s remarkable wildlife.

One of the absolute highlights of our trip was our visit to VulPro, an incredible world-class vulture rehabilitation, rescue, and breeding center located just outside of Johannesburg. The timing couldn't have been more perfect, as we found ourselves there on International Vulture Awareness Day (IVAD), September 2, 2023. In celebration of IVAD this year, we're excited to share some of our photos and experiences from that unforgettable visit.

VulPro is not just a sanctuary; it is a beacon of hope for the vulture species of southern Africa, many of which are critically endangered. We had booked our visit well in advance, ensuring that we could take in everything this remarkable facility has to offer. If you're planning to visit, keep in mind that VulPro is open to the public by appointment only, so it's essential to plan ahead.

Our day at VulPro began with a warm welcome from the knowledgeable and passionate staff, who are clearly dedicated to the conservation and well-being of vultures. We were given an informative, comprehensive tour of the facility by employee Clarence, starting with the mews where various species of vultures and other birds of prey were being rehabilitated. Seeing these magnificent birds up close, some recovering from injuries and others preparing to be reintroduced into the wild, was both humbling and inspiring. The staff explained the challenges these birds face in the wild, from poisoning and power line collisions to habitat loss, and how VulPro is working tirelessly to combat these threats. We saw individuals healing from terrible burn injuries, recovering from wing fractures, and one famous White-backed Vulture who was the recipient of a revolutionary beak transplant.

One of the most fascinating aspects of our visit was learning about VulPro's breeding programs. These programs are crucial for the survival of several vulture species. The chicks hatched here are carefully raised and monitored, with many eventually being released into the wild to help bolster dwindling populations. It's an incredible example of how conservation efforts can make a tangible difference.

As part of our visit we were able to spend some time in the hide at VulPro's "vulture restaurant." This specially designated area is a feeding site where wild vultures can safely feast on carcasses provided by VulPro. As we settled into the hide, we were soon rewarded with the sight of wild Cape Griffon vultures soaring in from all directions to visit the restaurant. Watching these majestic birds descend and feed was an awe-inspiring experience. Seeing the wild birds feeding on the safe, clean carcasses was a beautiful visual reminder of their vital role in the ecosystem as nature’s clean-up crew.

As we observed the vultures, we couldn't help but feel a deep sense of admiration for these often-misunderstood creatures. Their role in the environment is crucial, and without them, ecosystems would suffer. VulPro's work is vital not just for the survival of vultures but for the health of the ecosystems they help maintain.

Our visit to VulPro was truly memorable, and we left with a greater appreciation for the challenges faced by vultures and the incredible work being done to protect them. If you ever find yourself in South Africa, a visit to VulPro is an absolute must. It's an opportunity to witness conservation in action and to learn about the important role vultures play in our world.

In honor of International Vulture Awareness Day, we encourage everyone to take a moment to learn more about these remarkable birds and to support conservation efforts like those at VulPro. Together, we can help ensure that vultures continue to soar in the skies for generations to come.

When we think about urban environments, images of bustling streets, towering skyscrapers, and dense human populations come to mind. Yet amidst this concrete jungle, a surprising array of bird species not only survive but thrive. Adapting to city life involves a fascinating blend of biological resilience and behavioral flexibility, allowing birds to exploit new resources and navigate the challenges of urban spaces.

Among the most iconic urban dwellers is the Peregrine Falcon. Renowned for being the fastest animals on earth—capable of diving at speeds over 200 miles per hour to catch their prey—these cosmopolitan raptors have found a surprising ally in tall buildings and skyscrapers. These structures mimic the high cliff ledges Peregrine Falcons traditionally nest on. Cities also provide an abundant supply of prey such as pigeons and smaller birds. Major cities around the globe, from New York to London, now host thriving populations of these falcons, which have adapted remarkably well to urban life.

Streaming nestcams featuring Peregrine Falcons are abundant due to their frequent use of urban buildings for nesting. Right now is a great time to check out cams like the ones linked below, as the Peregrines are busy raising their fluffy young.

• University of Pittsburgh's Cathedral of Learning Falcon Cam
• The Providence Peregrine Live Stream
• Alcatraz Island Nest Webcam
• Chesapeake Conservancy Peregrine Falcon Cam
• Richmond Falcon Cam
• Indiana Michigan Power Center Falcon Cam
• Rochester Falconcam

Then there are Barn Swallows, who traditionally nest in caves, and in barns and other open structures in rural areas. In cities, these agile fliers have transitioned to nesting under bridges and highway overpasses, using these man-made structures to support their mud-built nests. This adaptation not only provides them with safe nesting sites away from many ground predators, but also places them near water sources where insects—their primary food source—are abundant.

Other bird species that thrive in areas of human development are easy to identify: a big clue is in their name (the name we humans gave to them).  Think about where we can find birds like House Sparrows, House Finches and House Wrens, Barn Owls, Roadside Hawks, and House Martins of the Old World.

City parks and gardens are vital refuges for many bird species. Here, smaller birds like sparrows and finches find not only food in the form of plants and insects but also an assortment of bird feeders filled by enthusiastic bird watchers. These green spaces serve as miniature ecosystems within the urban sprawl, offering shelter and breeding sites. The presence of trees and water features in parks also supports a variety of bird species, from the common robin to the more elusive kingfisher in cities with rivers or ponds.

Birdhouses and nesting platforms are another crucial element that bolsters bird populations in urban settings. Many cities have seen successful implementation of nest box programs that encourage species such as Eastern Bluebirds and Purple Martins to take up residence. These initiatives not only help in bird conservation, increase biodiversity and promote a healthy environment, but also engage the local community in wildlife management and education. Platforms and artificial nests provide safe havens for birds to rear their young away from the prying eyes of predators and the disturbances of city life.

Moreover, urban environments are witnessing innovative approaches to support bird life. For instance, some cities have introduced green roofs, which are covered with vegetation and provide a new habitat for urban birds and other wildlife. These green roofs can reduce the "heat island" effect of cities and offer birds a cooler place to rest and feed. They also help in water retention and provide foraging grounds for insects, thus supporting a small but vital food web for urban bird species.

In adapting to urban environments, birds demonstrate remarkable versatility and resilience. While these adaptations highlight their ability to cope with and exploit new environments, they also underscore the importance of human efforts in supporting urban wildlife. By installing birdhouses, maintaining parks, and initiating conservation programs, we can ensure that our cities remain hospitable to a diverse array of bird species.

It's Infrastructure Week on our blog! The series will dive into the fascinating intersection of urban development and bird conservation and other topics related to infrastructure and birds.  As our cities expand and evolve, so too does the need to consider our feathered friends in our architectural and landscaping decisions. From bridges that serve as nesting grounds to green roofs that offer safe havens, we'll explore how modern infrastructure relates to birds.

Birds brighten our skies with their vibrant colors and melodious songs, but they face numerous dangers as they navigate a world increasingly dominated by human infrastructure. As we expand our cities and networks, we create hazards that pose serious threats to avian populations. Among the most pressing concerns are collisions with glass buildings. Thankfully, innovative solutions and architectural designs are emerging that can mitigate these risks, offering hope for safer skies for our feathered friends.

Glass buildings, with their sleek and modern aesthetics, are a staple of urban architecture. However, they pose a significant hazard to birds. The transparent and reflective properties of glass can deceive birds into thinking they're flying towards open sky or habitat, leading to collisions that are often fatal. Each year, it's estimated that millions of birds die from striking glass surfaces. Cities along major migration flyways can be major zones of bird mortality during the spring and fall. This issue has garnered attention from conservationists, architects, and city planners who are all working towards making buildings safer for our feathered friends.

One of the primary reasons glass buildings are so dangerous to birds is that birds don't perceive glass as a barrier. The reflections of trees, sky, and other natural elements on glass surfaces can create an illusion of continuity in their habitat. When birds try to fly through these illusions, they collide with the hard, unyielding glass. Furthermore, during nighttime, interior lights confuse and attract nocturnal migrants, compounding the risk of collisions.

Addressing this issue, several innovative solutions and architectural adjustments can be implemented to help reduce bird collisions with glass buildings:

• Fritted Glass: This type of glass has patterns etched onto it that are visible to birds but minimally intrusive to human eyes. The patterns can take various forms such as dots, lines, or images that cover enough surface area to alert birds of the barrier ahead.

• Angled Glass: Installing glass at an angle can help reduce reflections of the sky and vegetation, which are often the visual cues that mislead birds. Angled glass reduces the severity of these reflections, making the surface more visible to birds as an obstacle.

• External Screens and Netting: Installing screens or netting in front of glass surfaces can physically prevent birds from colliding with the glass. This method doesn't alter the glass itself but provides a barrier that birds can see and avoid.

• UV-reflective Glass: Birds can see ultraviolet light, which is invisible to humans. Glass treated to reflect ultraviolet light can appear clear to humans but is visible to birds. This technology allows buildings to maintain their transparency for people while being an effective deterrent against bird strikes.

• Decals and Window Films: Placing decals or special films on glass surfaces can make windows visible to birds without significantly affecting the view from inside. These decals are often placed in specific patterns that provide cues to birds that there is a barrier.

• Lighting Reduction: Reducing light pollution, especially during migration seasons, can decrease the number of birds attracted to and disoriented by glass buildings at night. Many cities are adopting guidelines that include turning off building lights or dimming them during critical migration periods.

Community involvement is also crucial. Initiatives like bird conservation programs and educational campaigns can raise awareness about the importance of bird-friendly designs. By supporting policies that require or encourage such measures, the public can play a pivotal role in promoting safer environments for birds.

During this infrastructure week, as we continue to build and innovate, it's vital that we consider our impact on the natural world. With thoughtful design and technological advances, we can create infrastructures that not only serve human needs but also protect our avian companions. Ensuring the safety of birds as they navigate the challenges of modern landscapes is not just an act of conservation; it's a commitment to preserving the beauty and diversity of life on Earth.

Further reading:

• Bird-Friendly Buildings
• Bird Safe Buildings
• Bird-Safe Building Guidelines

In an unprecedented and inspiring leap towards conservation, the American Bird Conservancy, alongside other conservatoin agencies, has embarked on a groundbreaking mission in Hawaii to save several critically endangered Hawaiian honeycreepers from the brink of extinction. The culprits behind the looming threat? Invasive Southern House Mosquitoes carrying avian malaria. The solution? A clever, innovative strategy involving the release of non-biting male mosquitoes engineered to curb the mosquito population and, by extension, the spread of the deadly disease.

Hawaiian honeycreepers, with their vibrant plumage and unique evolutionary history, are more than just birds; they are integral to Hawaii's ecological and cultural tapestry. Once flourishing with over 50 native species, the islands now see a stark reduction to merely 17, each teetering dangerously close to oblivion. The initiative, aptly named Birds, Not Mosquitoes (BNM), marks a significant milestone in conservation efforts, particularly as it coincides with Makahiki o Nā Manu Nahele, or the Year of the Forest Bird, amplifying its significance and urgency.

November 2023 saw the first of these mosquito releases on Maui and Kaua‘i, following extensive study, analysis, and regulatory nods from state and federal bodies. This innovative approach introduces mosquitoes carrying a strain of Wolbachia bacteria, harmless to humans but fatal to mosquito progeny. When these engineered males mate with wild females, the resulting eggs fail to hatch, leading to a gradual but significant decrease in mosquito populations.

This technique, already proven in combating mosquito-borne human diseases globally, promises a ray of hope for Hawaii's feathered natives. Without intervention, climate change's warmer, drier conditions push mosquitoes to higher elevations, directly threatening the survival of species like the Kiwikiu and ‘Ākohekohe on Maui, and ‘Akikiki and ‘Akeke‘e on Kaua‘i. Experts warn that without a drastic reduction in mosquito numbers, these birds could vanish within a decade.

Behind this ambitious project is a broad coalition of state and federal agencies, non-profit organizations, and researchers, all united under the banner of the U.S. Department of Interior's Strategy to Prevent the Extinction of Hawaiian Forest Birds. The initiative not only aims to stabilize and eventually increase native bird populations but also sets the stage for future re-introductions from conservation breeding programs.

Monitoring forms the backbone of this initiative, with teams on Maui and Kaua‘i meticulously tracking mosquito populations with traps, as well as malaria prevalence, and bird population dynamics. This extensive, data-driven approach ensures that the intervention's impact is scientifically measured, paving the way for further releases and an expanded fight against avian malaria.

The commitment of nearly $16 million by the current administration under the Investing in America Agenda underscores the project's importance, signaling a collective determination to protect Hawaii's unique biodiversity. As 2024 unfolds, the partnership eyes continued efforts on Maui, expanded operations on Kaua‘i, and a comprehensive Statewide Environmental Assessment to explore wider applications of this conservation tool.

This pioneering endeavor exemplifies the power of collaboration, innovation, and dedication in the face of seemingly insurmountable conservation challenges. As the Birds, Not Mosquitoes project advances, it stands as a testament to the potential for science and unity to forge a future where Hawaii's skies are once again filled with the vibrant chorus of its native honeycreepers.

The Black-capped Vireo, a small, striking species of songbird that once teetered on the brink of extinction, serves as a symbol of hope in the world of conservation. Its road to recovery showcases the power of targeted conservation efforts. In learning about the Black-capped Vireo, we can celebrate the continued survival of a species that once faced dire prospects.

Black-capped Vireos are notable as the only species of vireo to display sexual dimorphism, meaning males and females have a different appearance. Males can be identified by their distinctive black cap, which contrasts with their white underparts and greenish upper body. Females have a similar look but with more muted color differences.

Native to North America, the Black-capped Vireo breeds across parts of Oklahoma, Texas, and northern Mexico. There, it can be found in shrubby areas where it can find its preferred nesting sites.

By the late 20th century, Black-capped Vireo numbers had dwindled alarmingly, primarily due to habitat loss, grazing practices that altered their natural habitats, and the parasitism of their nests by the Brown-headed Cowbird.

The turning point for the Black-capped Vireo came with its listing as an endangered species, in 1987, which catalyzed a series of conservation actions aimed at reversing its decline. One of the first steps in this process was habitat restoration. By managing vegetation and controlling grazing, conservationists were able to recreate the brushy environments that are ideal for the vireo's breeding and feeding. These efforts provided the birds with the conditions they needed to rebuild their populations.

Another critical component of the Black-capped Vireo's recovery was the control of the Brown-headed Cowbird population throughout critical parts of their breeding range. Through a combination of trapping and monitoring, conservationists significantly reduced the number of cowbirds in areas critical to the vireo's survival. This action decreased the rate of parasitism in vireo nests, allowing more vireo chicks to hatch and reach maturity.

Public education and involvement have also played a vital role in the recovery of the Black-capped Vireo. By raising awareness about the bird's plight and the importance of conservation efforts, organizations and government agencies have garnered support for their initiatives. Volunteers have contributed to the recovery efforts by participating in bird counts and habitat restoration projects.

Thanks to the concerted conservation work, the Black-capped Vireo has made a remarkable comeback. In 2018 it was removed from the list of endangered and threatened wildlife due to these efforts.

However, the conservation journey for the Black-capped Vireo is not over. Continued efforts are necessary to ensure the Black-capped Vireo's long-term survival. Habitat preservation remains a critical factor, as does the need for ongoing management of cowbird populations to prevent them from undermining the vireo's recovery. The species is managed by state agencies in both Texas and Oklahoma. Of course, habitat changes due to climate change pose a continued threat to vireos and other species.

The story of the Black-capped Vireo is a great story of what can be achieved when conservationists, government agencies, and communities come together to save a species from the threat of extinction. This success shows the importance of persistence, innovation, and cooperation in the face of environmental challenges.

As the night sky glows with city lights, it's easy to forget that this artificial brightness affects more than just our ability to see the stars. It also poses a significant challenge to millions of migratory birds traveling under the cover of darkness. Each year, vast numbers of birds traverse long distances, relying on natural cues like starlight to navigate. Excessive lighting in urban areas can disorient these nocturnal travelers, leading to fatal window collisions, disorientation, and unnecessary exhaustion. To combat this problem, some cities around the world have adopted "Lights Out" programs, a crucial initiative aimed at making urban environments safer for migrating birds during key periods of their journey.

The concept of "Lights Out" is simple -- yet effective. During peak migration seasons, spring and fall, residents, businesses, and city officials are encouraged to turn off or dim non-essential exterior lighting and window lighting during overnight hours. This reduction in light pollution during critical hours helps decrease the chances of birds being attracted to and disoriented by the lighting, which can lead to collisions with buildings.

Cities like Chicago, Toronto, and New York have been pioneers in this movement. These programs are often run in collaboration with local Audubon societies or wildlife organizations, which help monitor bird populations and advocate for policies that protect these aerial travelers. For example, New York City's "Lights Out New York" initiative is part of a broader effort that includes public awareness campaigns and partnerships with prominent buildings throughout the city to dim their lights during migration periods.

The impact of such initiatives can be profound. Research indicates that turning off lights can significantly reduce the number of birds killed due to building collisions. For instance, a study in Chicago found that bird collision deaths dropped by 80% in one building that participated in a Lights Out program (source). But complying with the program during the entirety of migration is key. This same building, McCormick Place, was also the site of a mass bird-collision event in October 2023 when the lights were not turned off as part of the program. Complying with bird-safe Lights Out programs has added benefits, including such as energy conservation, reduced carbon emissions, and building maintenance cost-savings.

Participation in "Lights Out" programs also serves an educational purpose. These programs raise awareness about the plights of migratory birds and the broader ecological impacts of human activities. For many city dwellers, these programs provide a tangible way to contribute to conservation efforts right from their homes or workplaces.

The success of "Lights Out" in major cities has inspired other municipalities to adopt similar measures. Smaller cities and even individual property owners are encouraged to participate by turning off unnecessary lights during migration seasons. This collective effort creates a safer passage for migratory birds, helping to ensure that these creatures can successfully complete their impressive and crucial journeys.

For bird enthusiasts, participating in or promoting "Lights Out" initiatives is a direct way to engage in bird conservation. It can be as simple as switching off extra lights at night during migration months or advocating for local policies that encourage broader community involvement. By spreading the word, supporting local Audubon chapters, or even participating in citizen science projects to monitor bird populations, individuals can make a substantial impact.

The beauty of the night sky is universal, and ensuring it can be navigated safely by our feathered friends is a responsibility we all share. The "Lights Out" programs represent a hopeful synergy between urban development and natural preservation, proving that even small changes in our behavior can facilitate major positive outcomes for wildlife conservation.

Suggested reading:

• Lights Out Program [Audubon.org]
• Misguiding Lights: American Bird Conservancy Highlights Artificial Light's Link to Bird-Glass Collisions
• Lights Out [BirdCast]
• Peak Migration Dates for U.S. Cities [BirdCast]