UNM scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery regarding the impact of blue light on migrating birds. The study, led by David Tan and Nicholas Freymueller from The University of New Mexico, sheds light on a previously overlooked factor contributing to bird-building collisions.
The research, recently published in the journal Conservation Biology, focused on the effects of blue light on night-migrating birds colliding with illuminated buildings. Tan, a Ph.D. candidate at UNM, highlighted the significance of their findings, stating, "Reducing blue light emissions at night during the migratory months could help reduce the number of bird deaths in cities, especially in tropical Asia."
The study highlighted the vulnerability of certain bird species to blue light pollution, with Tan noting, "pittas are particularly sensitive to blue light pollution." Additionally, the researchers found that non-migratory birds, such as green pigeons and emerald doves, tend to collide with buildings near forest edges, emphasizing the need for anti-collision measures in these areas.
Tan emphasized the importance of proactive measures to mitigate bird-building collisions, suggesting the incorporation of bird-safe glass and other collision-mitigation strategies in high-risk zones. He also commended Singapore's forward-thinking approach to urban planning, enabling the prediction of future collision hotspots and facilitating the integration of bird-friendly measures in building designs.
While advocating for energy-efficient LED lights, the researchers proposed using warmer color tones and shielding to minimize nocturnal blue light pollution. Tan stressed the potential of these measures to reduce bird fatalities, especially during migratory periods, stating, "Our discovery that blue light pollution increases the building collision risk of night-migrating birds in tropical Asia adds to the small but growing number of studies worldwide showing that blue light pollution attracts migratory birds."
The study's findings provide valuable insights for urban planners and developers, offering practical solutions to mitigate the impact of blue light on bird populations in cities.