As night falls, many of us take comfort in the glow of streetlamps and bright signs that illuminate our cities and towns. However, this excess of artificial light can have unexpected consequences. For a variety of wildlife, the effects of this unnatural light can be quite damaging. Species that rely on darkness to hunt, migrate, and reproduce are becoming increasingly disrupted by light pollution, threatening their survival. For us, the beauty of the natural night sky is fading at an alarming rate, with some studies reporting light pollution growing globally at an astounding 10% on average each year.
For these reasons, protecting havens from light pollution could not be more important than it is today. The role of land trusts in preserving and protecting areas with lower levels of light pollution is critical. Most NCLT properties are classified as a category four on the Bortle scale, which is scaled one to nine, one being an excellent dark sky site and nine being an inner-city sky. If you’re interested in finding out where your backyard scores on the Bortle scale, take a look at this map!
Nestled on the southern slope of Mount Watatic in Ashby, Longview Conservation Area offers an oasis from light pollution as well as variable woodland and open space. Longview has the characteristics of a suitable habitat for local predatory nocturnal birds, such as Barred Owls. Barred Owls are one of the species that have been negatively impacted by light pollution invading their habitat. Unnatural light can disorient these nocturnal birds, reducing their hunting efficiency and potentially leading to food shortages and population declines.
This conservation area offers a sanctuary for Barred Owls to hunt, nest, and thrive away from the harmful lights of brightly lit surrounding cities and towns. These ecologically restorative properties of Longview Conservation Area also benefit many additional species that rely on darkness for survival.
Along with the ecological benefits of lower light pollution, we can also enjoy the enhanced beauty of the night sky and clearer views for stargazing. This also includes opportunities to observe more rare atmospheric phenomena such as views of the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights). As the sun approaches the peak of its current 11-year solar cycle, stronger geomagnetic storms may increase the chances of auroras appearing further from the poles. Under the right conditions, they can even reach mid-latitude regions near us. So, keep that in mind while enjoying the wonders of the night sky this winter.
While enjoying these celestial marvels, consider reducing your contribution to light pollution by turning off unnecessary lights at night. Simple steps like using motion-sensor lighting, closing curtains, or switching to fully shielded outdoor fixtures can help protect wildlife and preserve the beauty of the night sky for generations to come.