Ways to Help Migratory Birds
Lights Out
Most migratory birds fly at night. Lights from buildings and other structures can cause confusion, exhaustion, and lethal window strikes. Building owners can help by turning out lights at night in order to help birds migrate successfully. Lights Out programs also save energy for businesses.
National Audubon Lights Out Initiative
Bird-Safe Design: Window Collisions
Birds can be attracted to reflective surfaces such as windows. Many people find dead or stunned birds due to window collisions. Solutions from bird-friendly window tape, to specific window installation, to smart urban planning and design can help address the threat of glass collisions to migratory and resident birds.
American Bird Conservancy-Science and Solutions
BirdSavers - "Zen Window Curtains"
Balloons and Birds Don't Mix
Balloons pollute our land and oceans. Birds and other wildlife confuse balloons with food, and the material lodges in their digestive tracts. In addition, ties on balloons can trap birds so that they cannot swim or fly. Remember that if you release a balloon, it lands somewhere as harmful trash.
Yards and Parks
Migrating birds require food, water, and safe spaces to rest and refuel. Every yard, park, and school ground can offer support to migratory (and resident) birds. Adding native plants, water features, and bird feeders are easy ways to help birds. The joy of hearing and seeing birds is hard to beat!