KEKAHA (HawaiiNewsNow) – The Pacific Missile Range Facility will be dimming lights to help protect native seabirds during fledging season.<\/p>\n
PMRF launched its annual \u201cDark Skies\u201d program Monday as shearwater fledging season began on Kauai.<\/p>\n
The effort runs through Dec. 15 and is aimed at protecting Newell\u2019s shearwaters and Hawaiian petrels as young birds leave mountain burrows and make their first flights toward the ocean.<\/p>\n
Officials said bright artificial lights can disorient fledglings, causing them to become grounded, injured or killed.<\/p>\n
Protective measures include shielding exterior lighting, reducing nonessential lights at night and increasing awareness about responsible lighting practices.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Dark Skies Program plays a critical role this season as shearwater fledging and n\u0113n\u0113 breeding occur simultaneously on the installation,\u201d PMRF Natural Resources Manager Brooke McFarland said.<\/p>\n
This year\u2019s effort also comes as PMRF continues recovering from Hurricane Lowell. Officials said storm debris, damaged vegetation and altered lighting conditions could create additional hazards for seabirds.<\/p>\n
PMRF is also preparing for n\u0113n\u0113 breeding and fledging season, which runs from September through April.<\/p>\n
Residents and businesses are encouraged to dim or shield outdoor lights at night.<\/p>\n