Light pollution is artificial light that can cause unintended ill effects. Bright lights (like LEDs) and light clutter create blinding glare, cause our pupils to constrict, and reduce our ability to see at night.

Improperly shielded fixtures dump nuisance light trespass onto nearby private properties and can create a dome of skyglow over towns and cities. These can cause serious health issues, disorient birds during migration, and blind us to the stars above.

“Montana is blessed with patches of still-dark, rural night skies.

If light pollution would stop increasing, Montana would be in better shape than most states. But Flathead’s population and infrastructure has grown fast, and the need for outdoor lighting is increasing.

Worldwide, light pollution is expanding at double the rate of population growth. In the U.S., light pollution is increasing at 6% per year.”

-Dark Sky International | Montana members

The Flathead Valley, situated on the Pacific Flyway, sees around seven million birds pass overhead each spring. Artificial lights from cities and buildings, including decorative and interior lighting, can disorient migrating birds that travel at night. Many become confused by city lights and skyglow, leading them to circle illuminated areas, collide with buildings, or expend excessive energy - making them vulnerable to exhaustion and other urban dangers.

Learn about Audubon’s Lights Out for Migratory Birds and what you can do to protect our migratory birds.