KEKAHA (HawaiiNewsNow) – The Pacific Missile Range Facility will be dimming lights to help protect native seabirds during fledging season.
PMRF launched its annual “Dark Skies” program Monday as shearwater fledging season began on Kauai.
The effort runs through Dec. 15 and is aimed at protecting Newell’s shearwaters and Hawaiian petrels as young birds leave mountain burrows and make their first flights toward the ocean.
Officials said bright artificial lights can disorient fledglings, causing them to become grounded, injured or killed.
Protective measures include shielding exterior lighting, reducing nonessential lights at night and increasing awareness about responsible lighting practices.
“The Dark Skies Program plays a critical role this season as shearwater fledging and nēnē breeding occur simultaneously on the installation,” PMRF Natural Resources Manager Brooke McFarland said.
This year’s 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.
PMRF is also preparing for nēnē breeding and fledging season, which runs from September through April.
Residents and businesses are encouraged to dim or shield outdoor lights at night.
Downed seabirds can be reported to the Save Our Shearwaters hotline at 808-635-5117.
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