Limit Dangerous Threats

In the United States alone, outdoor cats kill approximately 2.4 billion birds every year. Although this number may seem unbelievable, it represents the combined impact of tens of millions of outdoor cats. Each outdoor cat plays a part.

The City of Houston currently promotes the Trap, Neuter, Return program, which does not address the threat of cats to birds. We support the American Bird Conservancy’s Cats Indoor initiative: Learn more.

Windows on homes, office buildings, and high rises have glass that reflects the trees and surroundings, creating images that look like inviting places for bird to fly. It is estimated that up to one billion birds die in the US every year due to window strikes. The good news is that materials such as bird-friendly glass are becoming more effective and available.

A Handout: Simple Solutions for Collisions by Saenger and Klem

Learn more.

Most North American migratory birds fly at night, and lights on buildings can disorient birds on their paths, resulting in fatal collisions. The Upper Texas Coast plays a key role on the Central Flyway, an important migratory path for birds. Birds that move along and across the Gulf of Mexico depend on safe passage through the Houston-Galveston area. Throughout migration, and particularly during storm fronts, turning Lights Out for Birds can make a big difference.

We encourage businesses, buildings, and individuals across the state to turn off all nonessential lights from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. throughout spring and fall migration. 

Spring Migration: March 15 - June 15, peak from April 19 - May 7

Fall Migration: Peak from September 5 - October 29

Learn more.

Practices that help migratory birds also help resident birds. These include lights out efforts, bird-safe building design, and thoughtful urban planning.

How to Help Migrating Birds

Pesticides including rat poison and insecticides like neonics kill birds and have an overall detrimental effect on our food chain. Learn more.