Lights Out Texas encourages local residents and businesses to turn off non-essential lights during the Spring bird migration
Due to light pollution in major cities, an estimated one billion bird deaths occur every year from collisions with buildings and structures. In an effort to protect these migrating birds, the Museum has partnered with the following members of the Cultural District to turn off all non-essential lights during the critical peak spring migration period from April 19 – May 7.*
- Amon Carter Museum of American Art
- Arts Council of Fort Worth | Fort Worth Community Arts Center
- Cattle Raisers Museum
- Fort Worth Botanic Garden | Botanical Research Institute of Texas
- Kimbell Art Museum
- Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth
- National Cowgirl Museum & Hall of Fame
- Performing Arts Fort Worth | Bass Performance Hall | Maddox Administration Building
- Will Rodgers Memorial Center
“Birds are a vital part of our ecosystem and migration is an especially vulnerable time for them,” said Dr. Morgan Rehnberg, Chief Scientist at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History. “When something as simple as turning off the lights can make a difference, it’s a no-brainer. It’s wonderful that so many organizations and families in North Texas are pitching in to help.”
The Lights Out Texas effort is led by a coalition of partners including conservation non-profits, universities, governmental organizations, and Texans dedicated to the conservation of birds.
Bird collisions can occur at any point during the full spring migration of March 1 – June 15. This spring, the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History and their partners in the Cultural District will prioritize the window of April 19 – May 7, when half of the total spring bird migration traffic passes through Texas. As an added bonus, turning off non-essential lights also saves energy for cities, local businesses, and homeowners.
Rural, residential, and commercial buildings are all encouraged to participate, particularly businesses and residences with nonessential and decorative lighting near the tops of buildings.
To learn more about Lights Out Texas and the Spring bird migration, visit the Lights Out Texas website.
Lights Out Texas represents one piece of the Museum’s annual Earth Week celebration (April 19-April 25). To learn more about Earth Week programming, visit the Museum’s website.
*security and safety lights will remain on.
The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, a distinguished institution established in 1941, is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and proudly holds Affiliate status with the Smithsonian Institute. Anchored by a diverse and enriching collection spanning science and history, the museum is committed to lifelong learning. Engaging visitors through vibrant programs and exhibits, it interprets the rich tapestry of Texas and the Southwest. The museum’s commitment to education is reflected in its innovative programs, designed to inspire and educate learners of all ages. From interactive workshops to immersive exhibits, the museum provides a dynamic environment for curiosity and intellectual growth. For more information about educational programs, exhibits, and events, visit www.fwmuseum.org.
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