Washington state is globally important for birds. With more than 500 bird species recorded in Washington, the state supports an extraordinary diversity of birds across its coastlines, forests, mountains, wetlands, and grasslands.

Located along the Pacific Flyway, Washington provides essential habitat for millions of migratory birds traveling between breeding grounds in Alaska and northern Canada and wintering areas farther south. From the coastal estuaries of Grays Harbor to inland wetlands and river valleys, birds rely on Washington’s landscapes to rest, refuel, and survive during their long journeys.

Most Birds Migrate at Night, and Artificial Light Puts Them at Risk

The majority of North American migratory birds travel at night, navigating by stars and natural light cues. Unfortunately, artificial light from cities and buildings can disorient migrating birds, pulling them off course and into urban areas where they are vulnerable to exhaustion, predation, and deadly collisions.

Collisions with buildings are one of the leading human-caused threats to birds, killing hundreds of millions of birds each year in the United States. Bright, unnecessary nighttime lighting dramatically increases this risk — especially during peak migration seasons in spring and fall.

Lights Out, Washington!

Lights Out Washington is a campaign of education, awareness, and action focused on protecting migratory birds that depend on Washington’s habitats.

By turning off unnecessary lights at night, especially during migration, Washington communities can:

• Reduce bird collisions with buildings

• Help migratory birds navigate safely through the Pacific Flyway

• Protect the state’s remarkable bird diversity for generations to come

Small actions like dimming or switching off lights can save thousands of birds each year and make Washington a safer place for wildlife.