Texas is known as the place where millions of birds stop over during their migratory journeys, but this annual spectacle is accompanied by dangers linked to artificial lighting. With millions of migratory birds passing through the Lone Star State, significant efforts to mitigate fatal collisions with buildings have become increasingly apparent.
One well-documented incident illustrates the grave risks birds face during their migration. On May 4, 2017, over 395 migratory birds crashed against One Moody Plaza—a 23-floor skyscraper located in Galveston, Texas. Josh Henderson, who was the animal services supervisor at the time and is now the executive director of the Humane Society, described the aftermath as “awe-inspiring and tragic.” The colorful warblers, which are prevalent during the spring migration, showcased every imaginable hue of feathers from bright yellows to deep blues, now lifeless on the ground.
The reality is staggering: between 365 million and 1 billion birds die each year due to collisions with buildings across the United States. This number tends to spike when migratory flocks travel through urban areas like Galveston, where the combination of bright lights and tall structures creates deadly consequences. The nature of the problem becomes even clearer when considering the migratory patterns of birds: approximately one out of three birds migrating through the country utilize Texas' highways during their spring and fall treks.
Texas plays host to vast populations as it sits at the crossroads of two major migratory flyways: the Central Americas Flyway and the Mississippi Flyway. These pathways serve as key routes for billions of birds moving from wintering habitats as far south as Mexico to nesting areas stretching all the way to northern Canada.
During these migratory periods, the danger posed by skyscrapers becomes painfully obvious. Low-rise buildings contribute to fatalities as well, but tall, lit-up structures like office buildings and stadiums can cause catastrophic losses, killing hundreds of birds at once. A more recent calamity saw nearly 1,000 birds perish on one night at a convention center in Chicago during their autumn migration—proof of how systemic this issue really is.
So what can be done to lessen these numbers and protect these vulnerable birds? Experts recommend straightforward, actionable steps individuals and organizations can take. First and foremost, turning off non-essential lighting during the migration seasons—typically from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.—can drastically reduce the risks. This practice creates clearer paths for birds as they navigate using the stars, cutting down on confusion caused by urban light.
After the tragic event at One Moody Plaza, the American National Insurance Company, which occupies the building, decided to switch off exterior lights and minimize illumination during migration seasons. Henderson explained, “Every tragedy is an opportunity to educate,” highlighting the invaluable role of community engagement and awareness. He and his team managed to not just address the aftermath of the crash but actively worked on educational initiatives to enlighten the community about migratory patterns.
Collaborative efforts led to the establishment of the “Lights Out for Birds” program, which has expanded statewide through partnerships with organizations like Houston Audubon. This campaign encourages businesses, developers, and homeowners alike to turn off unnecessary lights and minimize urban glare during critical migration seasons. Since its inception, it has grown successful enough to encompass major cities throughout Texas.
There’s more to the issue than just turning off lights. Ensuring bird safety also involves practical measures such as using window treatments to block light pollution, utilizing motion sensors for outdoor lighting, and advocating for better lit designs to redirect lighting downward. Community pledges have sprung up across Texas, with around 24 municipalities agreeing to follow these environmentally-friendly recommendations to protect birds during migration.
Research continues to shed light on how artificial lights disorient migrating birds. Birds typically navigate at night by the stars, and bright city lights can attract them, leading to disastrous consequences like collisions with buildings. With this knowledge, scientists and conservationists have developed tools to predict migration patterns, such as the BirdCast migration forecast and live migration maps. These resources allow anyone to track current migratory activities and anticipate upcoming events, all of which aid conservation strategies.
With around two billion birds traveling through Texas each spring, the stakes could not be higher for bird populations. Species like warblers and sparrows, which traditionally rely on Texas' migratory routes, could face increasingly severe challenges if the status quo of building collisions continues. Those tiny, vibrant birds aren't just part of the scenery—they play critical roles within ecosystems as insectivores and pollinators. Their journeys are not merely seasonal… they’re lifelines.
By joining forces to reduce artificial light pollution, communities can facilitate safer paths for migratory birds, ensuring these emblematic species can continue their annual journeys. Every small effort counts, and whether by turning off lights or spreading awareness, those living along migratory paths can make real contributions to avian survival. By protecting these significant migratory routes, Texas can keep its skies alive, vibrant, and welcoming for future generations of birds.
