As millions of migratory birds pass over Louisiana during their spring journey north, conservation groups are urging residents and businesses to “turn out the lights” to help protect these vital species. The Louisiana Wildlife Federation (LWF) has launched Lights Out Louisiana, a statewide campaign running now through June 15, aimed at reducing bird fatalities caused by nighttime light pollution.
Each year, an estimated 1 billion birds die in North America due to collisions with buildings and other man-made structures. These deaths contribute to a troubling 29% decline in bird populations over the past 50 years. Among the species impacted is the wood thrush, once common in Louisiana but now listed as a species of conservation concern.
“In addition to habitat loss, much of the decline of the wood thrush population is likely due to building collisions,” said Dr. Van Remsen, LSU Professor Emeritus of Natural Sciences. “More than 100 species of migratory birds are experiencing population decreases, with collisions being a significant factor.”
Lights Out Louisiana asks residents, businesses, and building owners to turn off unnecessary outdoor and indoor lighting from 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. to help migratory birds navigate safely through the state. The initiative targets the most active hours for bird migration, which typically begins 30 to 45 minutes after sunset and peaks overnight.
Louisiana lies in the heart of the Mississippi Flyway, one of North America’s major migratory paths. In the 2024 fall migration alone, an estimated 500 million birds flew over the state. These birds rely on natural light cues like the moon and stars to guide them, but artificial lighting—especially from urban centers—can disorient them, causing fatal collisions with windows and buildings.
“Our city lights can misguide birds, diverting them off course with often dire consequences,” said Rebecca Triche, Executive Director of the Louisiana Wildlife Federation. “By supporting the Lights Out initiative, businesses and individuals can take a practical step to protect these birds during their incredible journey.”
To amplify awareness, LWF has partnered with WAFB’s First Alert Weather Team to provide alerts during poor weather conditions, which further increase collision risks. “As meteorologists, we closely track the skies—not just for people, but for wildlife too,” said WAFB Chief Meteorologist Steve Caparotta. “Small actions like turning off lights can make a big difference during peak migration.”
Guidelines for Participating in Lights Out Louisiana:
Turn off all non-essential lights from 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Avoid landscape lighting near trees or gardens where birds may rest.
For essential lighting, use “dark skies-friendly” practices:
Aim lights downward.
Use shields to reduce upward glare.
Install motion sensors.
Close blinds at night.
For building managers and owners:
Adjust custodial schedules to end before 11:00 p.m.
Ensure all lights are turned off after cleaning.
For buildings over three stories:
Dim or turn off decorative lighting, lobby lights, floodlights, and lighting on vacant floors.
Replace bright white lights (above 3000K) with warmer, bird-friendly alternatives.
Bird enthusiasts and residents can track nightly migration using BirdCast, a tool from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Real-time dashboards are available for Louisiana and major cities including Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Shreveport, and more.
To learn more or join the effort, visit:
Louisiana Wildlife Federation
National Audubon Society
American Bird Conservancy
Together, small changes can help stop the carnage and protect the birds that make Louisiana a vital stop along their journey.