Texas is the southern gateway to the North American Central Flyway.
As winter approaches, approximately 98.5% of our migrating birds use this flyway as they pass through Texas on their way to warmer climates. The same happens in the spring in the reverse direction. This year, fall migration occurs Sept. 5 through Oct.29.
The Wimberley Valley (Wimberley, Woodcreek and the extra-territorial jurisdiction of both municipalities) is officially designated an International Dark Sky Community. The local Dark Sky organization serves the community by educating businesses and residents about proper use of outdoor lighting to help protect the birds in the flyway.
However, these feathered friends are not the only reason to keep skies dark.
In a semi-rural area, with outside lights off, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the beauty of a truly starry night — something that is nearly impossible in big cities. The Lights Out Texas organization makes the following easyto- follow recommendations to ensure the night sky is safe for traveling birds and a continual wonder for stargazing:
• Turn off all non-essential lights from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.
• Do not use landscape lighting to light trees or gardens where birds may be resting.
• For essential lighting, aim lights down or use shields.
• Close blinds at night to reduce the light emitted from windows.
Birds usually begin to migrate 30 to 40 minutes after sunset, with the greatest number in flight two to three hours later. Let’s each do our part to provide a safe migratory route and preserve our night sky.
