Monahans Sandhills State Park is asking West Texans to dim unnecessary outdoor lighting overnight as millions of birds make their annual fall migration through the state.
Fall migration is underway from Aug. 15 through Nov. 30, with peak migration expected from Sept. 5 through Oct. 29, according to information shared by the park. Much of the movement occurs at night, making artificial lighting a potential hazard for migrating birds.
The park is encouraging residents and businesses to turn off or dim unnecessary outdoor lights between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. People can also help by closing blinds or curtains when indoor lights are on and avoiding illuminating trees and other areas where migrating birds may stop to rest.
Monahans Sandhills and the surrounding West Texas region provide habitat for numerous species traveling along seasonal migration routes.
Among the birds that can be spotted passing through the area are painted buntings, yellow warblers, Bullock’s orioles, Swainson’s hawks, black-chinned hummingbirds and scissor-tailed flycatchers.
The effort also highlights the broader importance of preserving West Texas’ dark skies. Reducing nighttime light pollution can benefit migrating wildlife while maintaining one of the region’s most distinctive natural features.
“Dark skies aren’t only beautiful — they help wildlife, too,” the park said.
