Guidance and Updates
A Dark, Quiet Night—Why It Matters for Us and the Wildlife. www.darksky.org
Why turning off exterior lights matters:
• Protecting wildlife and ecosystems: Artificial light at night (ALAN) disrupts the natural behaviors of nocturnal creatures—from confusing moths and insects (many perish at light sources) to disorienting bats, amphibians, birds, and migratory species (see DarkSky.org). Light pollution also creates skyglow, erasing starry skies and upsetting nocturnal rhythms.
• Promoting responsible, wildlife-friendly lighting: DarkSky.org recommends downward-shielded fixtures, warm-colored bulbs, and lighting only when essential. These choices preserve both night skies and wildlife habitats.
What about bears? Do lights keep them away?
• Lights are not a reliable bear deterrent. Bears rely heavily on smell—not sight—to locate food. A porch light won’t stop a food-hungry bear. In fact, it may even highlight possible attractants like unsecured trash.
• Motion-activated or strobe lights may offer short-term deterrence. These can startle bears temporarily, but evidence shows effectiveness declines as bears become accustomed to them.
POA Neighborhood Night Lighting Tips
• Use lighting only as needed – turn lights on to walk safely from your car to
your home, then turn them off again.
• Opt for motion sensors wherever possible—so lights stay dark until
genuinely needed.
• Choose wildlife-friendly bulbs (amber or warm LED vs. blue-white).
• Install fully shielded fixtures to focus light downward and avoid glare and
skyglow.
• Secure attractants like garbage, pet food, or bird feeders to reduce bear
lure, rather than relying on light.
Summary: Why We Do This
For Nature: Preserves insect, bat, amphibian, and bird behaviors; reduces skyglow and light pollution; does not compromise safety when used responsibly.
For Us: Brings out the stars and restores natural night beauty; saves energy and can lower bills; builds a safer, less startling environment for visitors and wildlife.
Let's all enjoy peaceful, star-filled nights—only lighting the path when needed, turning it off when we're inside, and keeping our wildlife and surroundings thriving.
Learn more at: https://www.darksky.org
