We can assist migrating birds with the flick of a switch

This is not a birds-eye view, but somewhat higher than that, of the lights of DC. (2016 NASA photo from the International Space Station by astronaut Scott Kelly)

by Julia K. Stevenson

The great southern bird migration is under way. Tens of millions of birds pass through Washington, DC during the fall (heading south) and spring months (northbound).

The majority of birds fly at night, navigating by stars in the night sky. However, as these beautiful creatures follow the Atlantic Coast flyway and pass over DC, they can become disoriented by bright artificial lights and skyglow, collide with buildings or windows, or become confused and exhausted by reflective or transparent glass surfaces. Studies have estimated that at least 100 million bird deaths related to light pollution occur in cities throughout the United States each year, and some estimates put that number closer to one billion deaths per year.

The good news is that we can all be part of the solution. Please dim or turn off any unnecessary lights this time of year (the remaining few days of September, all of October and into the middle of November) and especially try to have them off between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. to ensure safe passage for migratory birds.

You can also help birds all year by using timers and motion sensors on your outdoor lights, and by using warm-colored amber or yellow bulbs outside. Most nocturnal insects are not attracted to yellow wavelengths. This is important because birds need these insects for their fuel, and we need them for the important ecological role they play. Additionally, you can lessen the city’s skyglow by drawing blinds and curtains, thus cutting back on the contributory role that interior lights play in the overall brightness of our city at night.

Lastly, if appropriate, you can encourage your place of work, and/or worship, and/or other property owners to do the same.

Julia K. Stevenson is a lifelong resident of Washington DC. She is chair of the Sierra Club DC Chapter’s Ad-Hoc Committee on Light Pollution, is a member of DarkSky International’s DC Chapter, and is on ANC 3F’s Streets and Sidewalks Committee. She lives with her family on Albemarle Street.