Story perspectives

Billions of Birds Face Light Threat; Cornell Holds Virtual Event

5/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

BirdCast radar estimates over a billion birds may be airborne across the United States on a single night during peak migration.
Scientists warn that artificial nighttime lighting disorients birds and raises building collisions, prompting officials to advise turning off nonessential lights, closing curtains, and using window decals.
Cornell Lab of Ornithology will host a free virtual event on May 14 about spring migration behavior, identification, and conservation.

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Story summary

BirdCast radar estimates over a billion birds may be airborne across the United States on a single night during peak migration.
Scientists warn that artificial nighttime lighting disorients birds and raises building collisions, prompting officials to advise turning off nonessential lights, closing curtains, and using window decals.
Cornell Lab of Ornithology will host a free virtual event on May 14 about spring migration behavior, identification, and conservation.