Statement by Ornithologists and Light Pollution Experts on World Migratory Bird Day 2022

On World Migratory Bird Day, we marvel at the miracle of bird migration and recognize the immense obstacles that birds face as they embark on their annual journeys.

Most birds migrate at night. Many travel thousands of miles between breeding and non-breeding grounds. And yet, the night sky is under threat, with artificial light increasing globally by at least two percent a year, presenting a problem for birds and, thus, our entire ecosystem. Light pollution from homes, businesses, and other infrastructure attracts and disorients migrating birds, making them more likely to land in areas where they are more vulnerable to collisions and other dangers. Artificial light also disrupts foraging, nesting, and other vital behaviours in birds.

The impact of light pollution is the focus of this year’s World Migratory Bird Day, an opportunity to reevaluate our current lighting practices and to reconsider how they affect birds and other wildlife. We stand together in our commitment to reduce the impact of light pollution on migratory birds and our shared environment.   

[ Download the Full Statement (PDF) with the Names of all Ornithologist and Light Pollution Experts ]