09/21/2026
🦅🌙 Lights Out, Texas! Help Protect Migratory Birds This Fall 🌙🦅
Did you know that nearly two billion birds travel through Texas during fall migration? This incredible natural phenomenon is one of the world's greatest wildlife spectacles, and we can all play a role in helping these birds safely navigate their journey.
Peak fall migration runs from September 5 through October 29. During this time, DarkSky Texas encourages everyone to participate in the statewide Lights Out, Texas! initiative by turning off nonessential outdoor and indoor lighting between 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
Artificial light at night can disorient migrating birds, causing them to become exhausted, collide with buildings, or veer off course. Reducing light pollution helps keep birds oriented and flying safely.
💡 How You Can Help
✅ Turn off nonessential lights from 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
✅ Close blinds and curtains fully at night and partially during the day.
✅ Use desk lamps or task lighting instead of overhead lighting when possible.
✅ Sign up for BirdCast Migration Alerts to stay informed about high migration nights.
🏢 For Building & Facility Managers
• Dim or turn off lights in lobbies, atriums, commons, and perimeter rooms.
• Turn off decorative lighting, spotlights, floodlights, signs, and logos.
• Avoid illuminating indoor planters, fountains, trees, and gardens where birds may be attracted or resting.
🔦 For Essential Safety & Security Lighting
• Direct lights downward.
• Use shields to prevent light from shining into the sky or trees.
• Install motion sensors whenever possible.
• Choose warm-colored lighting (below 3000K) and avoid blue-white lighting.
Every light turned off can make a difference for migrating birds. Thank you for helping create safer skies and supporting conservation efforts across Texas!
For more information: 🌐 DarkSky Texas: https://darkskytexas.org/
🌐 Bird Friendly Aggieland: https://brtc.tamu.edu/bird-friendly-aggieland/
📧 Questions? Contact: [email protected]
