Did you know that every spring and fall millions of birds migrate through Oklahoma? Oklahoma is part of the central flyway with hundreds of species of birds making their way from, through, or to the state depending on the species and their migration starting point.

The problem is that excessive lights at nights from stadiums, businesses, and homes can be mistaken by birds for stars and the moon, which they use at night to navigate. Because of this confusion, birds can lose their way and find themselves in hazardous environments, and even crash into powerlines, buildings, or illuminated windows.

Even more fatal to birds, however, is the energy they waste flying around in confusion and crying out to their mates, offspring, and other members of their flocks. This excess, unnecessary calorie use can leave birds in a weakened state making them more vulnerable to all of the hazards in human environments.

An easy solution is to turn off non-essential lights at night between 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. particularly during the peak spring migration of April 15 – May 31.

For Homeowners, Businesses, and Schools

• Turn off all non-essential lights from 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. each night during migration season.

• Do not use landscape lighting to light up trees or gardens where birds may be resting.

• Close blinds at night to reduce the amount of light being emitted from windows.

• For essential lights, (like security lighting) use the following dark skies friendly lighting practices:

• Aim lights down. Use lighting shields to direct light downwards and to avoid light shining into the sky or trees.

• Use motion detectors and sensors, so lights are only on when you need them.