Effects of light pollution on our native creatures

Birds

Many birds use moonlight and the stars to navigate. Artificial light can disorientate migratory birds and cause them to land in urban areas or collide with buildings. Especially along the Danube and in urban areas, an increasing number of dead migratory birds have been found that have died in collisions with illuminated buildings.
Artificial light can also disrupt the day-night rhythm. This has negative effects on health and reproductive behaviour. Songbirds such as blackbirds and robins are confused by artificial light and sometimes sing at night or even earlier in the year than usual. If their breeding season is brought forward, there is still not enough food to raise their young due to the weather.

Insects

Nocturnal species in particular, such as fireflies and moths, are attracted to artificial light and change their natural behaviour as a result. They gather around light sources instead of pursuing their usual activities such as foraging or breeding. However, a large number also die due to the heat emitted by the artificial light source.
Four out of five animal species in Austria are insects. They play an important role as pollinators of plants, in natural pest control and as a source of food for other animals. Insects, for example, make up the majority of the food for around 40 per cent of the bird species that are highly endangered or threatened with extinction in Austria. Insect mortality is severely disrupting the ecological balance .

Tips for everyday life against light pollution - applied species protection at home

Every individual can help to reduce light pollution. With these tips, we can contribute to a nature-friendly night for the benefit of all:

• Selecting the light fitting
  Shielded luminaires with a closed housing and a surface temperature below 60°C have proven to be effective in protecting insects.

• Targeted and needs-based lighting
  Outdoor lighting should only be switched on when it is really needed. Motion detectors can help to switch the light on only when someone is in the vicinity. Natural objects such as trees, other plants or bodies of water should generally not be illuminated.

• Energy-efficient and suitable lighting
  Energy-saving light bulbs and light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are not only more efficient, but also emit less light into the sky. Caution: not every LED is environmentally friendly. Amber LEDs with a yellowish light (approx. 1800-2200 Kelvin) or warm white colour temperature (maximum 2700 Kelvin) should be used. Light with a high blue component, such as cool white light, should be avoided.

• Adjusting the light intensity
  Less light is often sufficient. Dimmable luminaires or lamps with a lower wattage can help to reduce the light intensity.

• Correct alignment
  Lamps should be designed in such a way that they only direct their light downwards and do not shine into the sky. This can be achieved by using lampshades or special luminaires. The beam angle of the lamp should be less than 70 degrees.

• Raise awareness
  Inform friends, family and neighbours about the effects of light pollution and how they can help to reduce it.