Wildlife Hospital Reports Public Light Displays Are Leading to Seabird Groundings
An Auckland bird hospital, BirdCare Aotearoa, is advocating for a reduction in public light displays, such as those on the Harbour Bridge and Sky Tower, during cloudy nights to protect native seabirds, particularly juvenile ones that are being disoriented by urban light pollution. The hospital cares for hundreds of seabirds each autumn, with a significant number of them crash-landing in brightly lit areas. Key lighting sources, especially LED displays, have been highlighted as problematic, especially during overcast nights when natural moonlight is obstructed. In response, SkyCity has agreed to meet with BirdCare to discuss potential solutions. Environmental expert Rashi Parker emphasized the importance of adjusting light intensity and color at specific times to prevent seabird injuries and fatalities.