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Sep 3, 2014 · Scientific evidence suggests that artificial light at night has negative and deadly effects on many creatures, including amphibians, birds, mammals, insects, and plants. Artificial lights disrupt the world’s ecosystems. Nocturnal animals sleep during the day and are active at night.
Nocturnal animals, such as bats, owls, and certain insects, are particularly affected by light pollution. These creatures are adapted to operate in low-light conditions, using their keen senses to navigate and hunt.
- Monarch Butterflies. The monarch is the only butterfly known to make a two-way migration like birds. They use a sophisticated navigation system to guide them in their journey south for the winter.
- Tree Frogs. Frog populations worldwide are in decline due to a variety of environmental stressors. As many frog species are nocturnal, they are especially susceptible to harm from light pollution.
- Atlantic salmon. Artificial light can change the natural migration patterns of salmon. Researchers compared the migration of young Atlantic salmon under natural light conditions with those under artificial street lighting.
- Fireflies. These magical creatures have been disappearing across the globe. Scientists agree that the loss of habitat and light pollution are partly to blame.
Jul 4, 2023 · From cougars and bats to butterflies and sea turtles, wildlife are increasingly threatened by light pollution, but simple solutions can help. In the Santa Monica Mountains, a western screech owl (above) perches in a tree above Los Angeles, one of the country’s most light-polluted urban areas.
Mar 13, 2020 · A recent study, Light pollution is a driver of insect declines, says habitat loss, pesticide use, invasive species and climate change have all played a role in insect declines globally, but that artificial light at night is another important—but often overlooked—cause.
Apr 1, 2024 · Studies show that light pollution is also impacting animal behaviors, such as migration patterns, wake-sleep habits, and habitat formation. Because of light pollution, sea turtles and birds guided by moonlight during migration get confused, lose their way, and often die.
Sep 4, 2024 · Light pollution is more than just an inconvenience for stargazers—it significantly disrupts animal behavior, especially for nocturnal species. Artificial lights interfere with natural darkness , which many animals depend on for navigation, feeding, mating, and other life-sustaining activities.
