Ligipääsulinnud

Ligipääsulinnud is an Estonian term that translates to "access birds" and refers to a phenomenon observed in certain bird species where individuals are attracted to artificial light sources at night. This attraction can lead to disorientation and increased mortality. The primary drivers of this behavior are believed to be the birds' navigational mechanisms, which can be disrupted by artificial lights, particularly during migration.

Species commonly affected include migratory birds, which rely on celestial cues and the Earth's magnetic field for navigation. Bright lights, such as those from tall buildings, stadiums, and streetlights, can mimic stars or confuse their internal compasses, causing them to circle the light source or collide with structures. This can result in exhaustion, injury, or death.

Efforts to mitigate the impact of ligipääsulinnud include implementing "lights out" programs during peak migration periods, shielding lights to direct them downwards, and using less disruptive lighting technologies. Conservation organizations and researchers are actively studying this issue to better understand the underlying causes and develop more effective solutions to protect bird populations from the detrimental effects of light pollution. The phenomenon highlights the unintended consequences of human development on wildlife and underscores the importance of considering ecological impacts in urban planning and lighting design.