Alarming Increase in Deadly Bird Collisions Sparks Urgent Action from Lights Out Volunteer Group
In major cities across the United States, the number of deadly bird collisions has reached alarming levels, prompting concerns for the safety and preservation of avian species. One such organization, Lights Out, a dedicated volunteer group based in the Lake Erie Nature & Science Center, is working tirelessly to prevent these fatal incidents. However, the group is experiencing difficulties in saving as many lives as possible due to a shortage of volunteers.
Cities like Philadelphia, Chicago, and Cleveland have witnessed staggering numbers of bird collisions in recent weeks. One day in Philadelphia alone saw a heartbreaking count of 1,500 birds lost, while Chicago mourned the loss of 1,000 in a single morning, all victims of the McCormack Place convention center. Last week, over 100 birds crashed into buildings in downtown Cleveland as part of their southern migration across Lake Erie.
The deadly allure of light and glass is a natural hindrance faced by birds during their seasonal journey. As a result, Lights Out has emerged as a vital beacon of hope for these vulnerable creatures. Since the migration season began on August 15th, this all-volunteer group has managed to recover a total of 927 birds. Out of these, 286 have survived and undergone rehabilitation, while 558 have tragically been found dead on sidewalks. Warblers and sparrows predominantly make up the majority of these casualties.
Tim Jasinski, a wildlife rehabilitation specialist who plays a crucial role in nurturing injured birds back to health, acknowledges the overwhelming demand for assistance. He stated, It’s been busy, and we still need volunteers, especially as we approach the later stages of the season.
Jasinski further highlights two particularly challenging periods for Lights Out volunteers: the end of September, when warblers finish their arduous journey over the Great Lakes, and the end of October, when delayed species and sparrows finally arrive on Northeast Ohio’s shores. The concern arises from the scarcity of dedicated volunteers needed to patrol downtown areas during the early hours, from approximately 6 a.m. onwards, following coordinated routes.
Kent Starrett, a seasoned volunteer with Lights Out, recounts previous devastating incidents when over 200 bird collisions occurred in a single fall day. He emphasizes that weather conditions play a significant role in these events, especially if it’s a rainy day with lower clouds and birds flying at lower altitudes. One such day in 2018 witnessed countless birds colliding with buildings until noon, leaving Starrett deeply disturbed by the tragedy that unfolded.
Volunteers frequently advocate for the use of Feather Friendly glass, a light diffuser designed to prevent collisions, as a sensible solution to reduce the number of casualties significantly. The Lights Out group aims to surpass its yearly average of recovering approximately 3,000 birds by 2023, further exemplifying the urgency and importance of their mission.
In a bid to address the shortage of volunteers, Metroparks advertised positions with Lights Out during the spring and summer months. However, the response fell short of expectations, leaving the organization in dire need of a committed team. Jasinski stressed the importance of recruiting at least twelve individuals who can assist in minimizing bird collisions. Every additional volunteer on the ground means fewer birds ending up in Jasinski’s freezer.
The issue of deadly bird collisions is one that cannot be overlooked. With days like those witnessed in Chicago, where sidewalks were covered with the victims of these tragic incidents, the urgency to take action becomes even more apparent. By embracing innovative solutions such as Feather Friendly glass, raising awareness, and garnering more volunteers, there is hope that the number of bird collisions can be significantly reduced, safeguarding the precious lives of these remarkable creatures.
In conclusion, the tireless efforts of Lights Out and its dedicated volunteers continue to provide a glimmer of hope for migratory birds facing the perilous challenges of their journey. The increase in deadly collisions serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of preservation and creating a safe environment for our avian friends. By joining forces, we can mitigate this crisis and ensure a brighter, safer future for our feathered companions.
