Dead birds have been found in increasing numbers in downtown Fort Worth as fall migration comes to an end, with a total of 56 dead birds discovered so far this year. This is more than the 41 birds found last year, according to Lights Out Fort Worth, a Texas Conservation Alliance regional program that aims to prevent window-related bird deaths.
Birds migrate at night and use the stars to navigate, but artificial light from urban cities like Dallas-Fort Worth can confuse and disorient them, leading to deadly collisions. The area is particularly hazardous for migratory birds, with up to 3.5 billion birds dying each year due to colliding into windows nationwide.
Conservationists believe that decorative lights on high-rises and city ordinances requiring streetlights along all streets contribute to the problem. However, some residents have shown receptivity to educational messaging about light pollution and urban ecology.
The Lights Out Fort Worth program uses volunteers and members to survey downtown areas, counting dead or stunned birds and collecting data for scientific research. They also use a free online platform called iNaturalist to allow the public to report bird sightings and help identify bird species.
To make a difference, residents can turn off nonessential lights overnight, install bird-safe glass on windows, or support conservation efforts by volunteering with the Lights Out Fort Worth team.
Source: https://fortworthreport.org/2025/11/24/deadly-bird-collisions-in-fort-worth-rose-from-2024-heres-how-to-help