Post by City of Toronto

Twice a year, in the fall and spring, migratory birds cross through Toronto. On their journeys, they are prone to colliding with buildings as they navigate through urban environments, often drawn by city lights and confused by reflections and transparency of glass, leading to fatal collisions. A high number of bird collisions with buildings occur in Toronto due to its proximity to Lake Ontario, which is at the confluence of the Atlantic and Mississippi Migratory Flyways. Bird mortality is disproportionately higher at mid-rise and high-rise buildings, which are concentrated in urban areas such as Toronto. Turning off lights is an easy way for businesses and residents to make Toronto a safer place for migratory birds. Do your part to save the birds: 👉Turn off exterior decorative lighting, pot lights and flood lights when not in use. 👉 Turn off interior lighting at night when not in use. 👉 Use Dark Sky compliant exterior lighting that is directed downward and that avoids light trespass beyond the necessary area. 👉 Close window coverings at night if lights must be kept on. 👉 Install automatic motion sensors and controls on lighting wherever possible. 👉 Learn how to use window treatments to make glass visible to birds. Learn about how you can help to protect migratory birds: toronto.ca/LightsOut