Fall migration is in full swing, and our collective commitment to protecting migratory birds is fueling the start of another survey season. This season, we are embarking on an endeavor to broaden our reach, engage new communities, and amplify our impact like never before.

Next week marks the beginning of this season's survey efforts! This pivotal phase is not just about data collection; it's a testament to our collective resolve to safeguard birds during their migratory travels. Your participation and support amplify our impact, turning every observation into a stepping stone toward safer skies.

When:

Sep 9 - Oct 11

Mon, Wed, Fri, mornings

Oct 14 - Nov 16 (Peak Migration)

Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat mornings



Nov 16 - Nov 29 Mon, Wed, Fri, mornings



ALL surveys begin at 6 am and end around 8 am!

Where:

Mornings start and end at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science Parking lot; see below in the "Parking Map" for the parking location and the correct entrance. 

Upon arrival at the parking lot gates, press the Help button on the screen and inform the security team that you are there for the Lights Out, Dallas! bird monitoring surveys. This will grant you access to the parking spaces​ (see attached map).

Volunteer Sign Up Portal

Sign up for the days you plan to participate. Volunteering has never been easier thanks to our user-friendly online portal. We can't wait to see you soon!

Lights Out, Texas! is a campaign of education, awareness, and action that focuses on turning off lights at night during spring and fall migrations to help protect nocturnally migrating birds. Originally launched in 2017 by Houston Audubon, Lights Out, Texas! has grown statewide and is facilitated by Audubon Texas in collaboration with conservation non-profits, universities, governmental organizations, and Texans dedicated to the conservation of birds.

This summer, the DFW team has attended insightful collective gatherings that are amplifying our efforts. Here are some highlights from the statewide efforts we are a part of!

A Second Life Through Research

The preparation of birds collected through the Lights Out, Texas! campaign has facilitated various research projects. The Texas A&M Biodiversity Research and Teaching Collections has acted as a keystone connector and helped distribute useful samples through opportunistic collaborations and creating utility for birds that would otherwise be dying in vain.

For instance, Lights Out, Texas! samples are helping with research on microplastic content through the birds' feeding strategies. Researchers are also able to investigate disease prevalence in migratory birds, such as avian malaria, avian influenza, and avian-bornavirus.

Through the help of surveyors on the ground collecting birds in the city, these researchers are provided a variety of birds that may not be available to them, as well as save time and resources to conduct their research. The collaborative effort is steadily building valuable datasets that will expand over time, enhancing our understanding of avian health and ecology.

Last week, 32 individuals working for multiple cities across the DFW metroplex joined TCA & partners involved in the Lights Out, DFW! campaign to learn about the negative effects that artificial lighting at night and reflective glass have on migratory birds and to discuss ways to minimize those effects.

While speakers from organizations such as Cedar Hill, Audubon Texas, Downtown Forth Worth Inc., NYC Bird Alliance, Dark Sky Texas, and TCA shared jaw-dropping statistics and graphics regarding light pollution, reflective-glass windows, and bird-building collisions in the U.S., they also gave examples of cities that have already taken action to make their buildings more bird-friendly.

The workshop was held at the Traphene Hickman Library in Cedar Hill, where most of the windows have an aesthetic bird-friendly design that matches the timeless architecture and natural atmosphere from the inside out.

Thanks to all of the cities, organizations, and partners that participated in the workshop!

Representatives from cities all of over DFW celebrating bird-friendly design at the new Cedar Hill public library

We call upon other cities in North Texas to join this crucial initiative, amplifying our impact and ensuring a better future for migratory birds across the region. Together, these efforts illuminate North Texas' dedication to conservation and serve as a beacon of hope for migratory bird populations. Click the link below to find Light's Out, Texas! (LOT) email outreach templates to use when contacting city officials, businesses, and more.

Education/Community Outreach

Bring Lights Out, DFW! campaign to you.

Beyond participating in bird-window collision surveys, everyone can contribute to supporting migratory birds. Educators and group leaders, reach out to us if you’re interested in discovering more about the Lights Out, DFW! and learning ways to help save birds at home.