Some state buildings turning off outdoor lights to protect migrating birds

New York State is taking action to protect migrating birds.

The Department of Environmental Conservation unveiled two initiatives on Friday. One is called "Lights Out."

Migrating Birds often become distracted by bright, artificial lights often causing them to collide with buildings or windows.

Now state buildings participating in "Lights Out" will turn off non-essential outdoor lighting to help protect the birds.

DEC also launched the Capital Region segment of the New York State Birding Trail at Five Rivers Environmental Education Center in Delmar. The goal of the trail is to increase engagement with nature.