As billions of birds migrate south over cityscapes at night, they can become disoriented by artificial lights, causing them to collide with buildings or windows. Lights Out is a national initiative which helps provide a safe passage for nighttime migrants.
The City of Raleigh participates in the program twice a year in an effort to protect migrating birds . Now through Wednesday, May 31, all non-essential lighting in city facilities will be turned off between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. Bonus: This also reduces energy consumption.
Good news — you can help, too:
- Turn off the lights outside of your home when not in use.
- Close blinds and curtains at home and at your office.
- Ask your employer to turn out exterior upward-facing lights, as well as interior office lights from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.