Keep the lights off for millions of migrating birds across PA

Residents in Pennsylvania and especially in the southwestern part of the state are asked to keep their lights out, if possible this weekend.

The reason? Millions of birds are making there was through PA as they migrate for the spring.

The Pennsylvania Natural Heritage Program estimates 10.7 million birds are traveling around PA over this weekend.

Many are song birds, shorebirds, waterbirds and other species.

It’s estimated nearly 12,000 birds fly around the Pittsburgh area on Thursday evening into Friday and another nearly 7,500 birds will do the same on Friday night into Saturday.

You’re asked to turn off any non-essential lighting between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. to give the birds a better chance at getting to their breeding areas successfully.

Bright lights can distract and disorient birds flying at night and can cause fatal collisions with buildings and other obstructions.