Willowsford at Night: Celebrate the Willowsford Night Sky During International Dark Sky Week, March 31-April 7
Dark Sky Week is a celebration of the under-appreciated night time environment. As humans, we use artificial light to function after the sun has set. While artificial light allows us to extend our days and preferred activities well into the evening and night, artificial light and related “light pollution” can have negative impacts on humans and our environment. Light pollution is considered light, such as from street lamps and buildings, which has harmful effects on human and ecological health.
A recent study found that 99% of the population of the United States and Europe can no longer see the Milky Way due to light pollution. Other studies have demonstrated negative impacts of light pollution on wildlife such as disrupting migratory bird flight patterns, reducing reproduction in fireflies, and reduced nocturnal pollinator activity.
- Bright lights can disorient nocturnal birds causing them to collide with buildings and distract migratory birds so they expend more energy by flying off-course.
- Artificial light can disrupt firefly flashing patterns making finding a mate difficult.
- Nocturnal moths can be attracted to lights which make them more vulnerable to predation.
- Artificial light has also been shown to impact plants by causing them to bloom earlier and reducing fruit production from a reduction in nocturnal pollination.
Fortunately, a few simple steps can mitigate the negative impacts of light pollution and also help minimize our carbon footprint, help us sleep better, and reduce our energy bill! Using fewer lights around the home at night reduces the impact on insects and wildlife near your home while also allowing you to sleep better. Having fewer streetlights and directing outdoor lighting downward with shades reduces impacts on nocturnal and migratory birds and gives residents a clearer view of the night sky.
