Our downtown Fort Worth surveys this season have documented 42 individual bird strikes across 15 species since September 11th. Here’s a breakdown of our findings so far:

• Most Impacted Species: Mourning Dove and White-winged Dove, representing over a third of recorded strikes.
• Warblers on the Move: We've observed multiple warbler species, including the Black-and-white Warbler, the Nashville Warbler, and a few unidentified species.
• Survival Outcomes: Around 10% of documented birds were initially stunned but eventually flew away, while, unfortunately, 90% did not survive their collisions.
• Condition Variety: Birds were found in various states—from fresh to decayed—highlighting the ongoing risk throughout the season.

These numbers emphasize the continued need for Lights Out! initiatives to reduce night-time lighting and mitigate collision risks. Every data point brings us closer to understanding and protecting migratory and resident birds in our urban landscapes.

Yellow-Bellied Sapsucker found downtown. This is the second woodpecker this season.

Bat Rescues!

Four evening Bats were found downtown, taken to a local rehabber to recover, and later released back into the wild!

With careful hands and care, four bats this season have been delivered to Bat World MidCities, a local rescue affiliate of Bat World Sanctuary. A big thank you to Bat World MidCities for their help! Read more about the evening bat above here!

November is our last month for Fall surveys. Don't miss your chance to volunteer with us!

Lights Out! volunteers and survey leaders celebrating Día de los Pájaros Muertos at Sundance Square.

TCA paid tribute to the lives of birds lost due to artificial light and glass collisions during our annual Día de los Pájaros Muertos event. While our Lights Out, Dallas! team has honored this day since 2022; Fort Worth hosted its first celebration on October 31st, bringing together volunteers, partners, and community members in remembrance.

This event honors these remarkable birds and highlights the scientific contributions of volunteers. Birds salvaged during surveys gain a 'second life' through research projects at the Texas A&M University Biodiversity and Teaching Collection and beyond.

Reflecting on the thousands of birds found in the DFW area and the nearly 1 billion that die during migration each year due to collisions, we recognize that many of these deaths are preventable. Join us in reducing light pollution and retrofitting reflective glass at home and throughout our city. Together, we work toward safer skies for all.

Attendees at the October Fort Worth Sierra Club meeting listen and discuss how the Lights Out! initiative is working to protect migratory birds.

On October 16, TCA spoke to members of the Greater Fort Worth Sierra Club at the Fort Worth Botanic Garden. The discussion centered on the Lights Out! initiative and its efforts to protect migratory birds in our urban environment.

TCA shared the latest updates on the program, upcoming volunteer opportunities, and insights into the development of the Lights Out! curriculum.

The event provided an excellent platform for engaging with local conservation enthusiasts, raising awareness about the impact of artificial lights on bird migration, and inviting the community to take action. By working together, we can make a meaningful difference in ensuring safe skies for our migratory birds.

Downtown Fort Worth Surveying

Join us on a Downtown Fort Worth survey walk! Sign up for the days you plan to participate. Thanks to our user-friendly online portal, volunteering has never been easier. We can't wait to see you soon! 

Survey Leader Joy collecting a bird found on a survey in downtown Fort Worth.

When:

Wednesdays through Fridays, with select Saturday mornings at 6:00 AM

September 11th – November 27th, 2024

Where:

Surveys will start and end at the Tarrant County College—Trinity River East Campus Parking lot. Enter on North Grove Street. For navigation, use the following address: 408 E Bluff St, Fort Worth, TX 76102.

Upon arrival to the parking lot, Lights Out, Fort Worth! Coordinators and Survey Leaders will give you a temporary parking permit (this permit is required)!

Before you arrive, please complete TCA's Volunteer Liability Waiver so we can keep your information on file. Every new volunteer must fill out the waiver.

What to Bring: 

• flashlight or headlamp (if you have one)
• weather-appropriate clothing
• comfortable walking shoes