Raleigh goes lights out to protect migrating birds

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- The city of Raleigh is joining efforts to protect migrating birds by going lights out.

Millions of birds travel through North Carolina, mostly under the cover of darkness, every spring and fall. Bright lights can distract and disorient nocturnally migrating birds, which could lead to collisions with buildings. These bird populations are in serious decline.

From Sept. 10 through Nov. 30, all non-essential lighting in city facilities will be turned off between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. This will also help save costs by reducing energy consumption, supporting Raleigh's sustainability goals and supporting the city's Community Climate Action Plan.

Here are some recommendations by Audubon North Carolina to make skies darker during migration seasons:

• Turn off the lights outside of your home, especially upward-facing lights.
• Close blinds and curtains at home and before leaving your office for the day.
• If you work in an office building, ask your employer to turn out exterior upward-facing lights, as well as interior office lights from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Raleigh participates in 'Lights Out for Bird Migration' twice a year.

For more details. click here.