Every autumn, the small island of Corvo in the Portuguese Azores goes dark for five nights to protect the world's most vulnerable birds. Over 400 residents participate in the blackout, which has already saved over 30,000 Cory's shearwater fledglings since 2015. The initiative, led by the Portuguese Society for the Study of Birds (SPEA) and the local governing body, aims to reduce light pollution and allow the birds to safely migrate to sea. Volunteers help the lost birds get back to sea, using cardboard boxes to transport them. The project has garnered unanimous support from the local community and has inspired other towns and islands in the region to follow suit. The success of the campaign has been documented in a photo essay by The Guardian, highlighting the importance of reducing light pollution to protect these vulnerable species. The initiative is part of two projects: Interreg LuMinAves and Interreg EElabs, which focus on mitigating the impact of light pollution on seabirds and promoting sustainable use of artificial lighting. The campaign will continue until November 5th, with other seabird rescue campaigns underway in the region.
Nature
Islands Near Portugal Turn Off Lights to Protect Seabird Fledglings Every October – 30k Already Saved
Prepared with AI assistance; not independently fact-checked. Original source: Good News Network