While we are busy paying attention to the external sources of pollution, have we actually thought about the pollution at night caused by the lights and the effects they have on nature? It has been found that night light pollution affects the migratory bats.
Studies were conducted by scientists to test the response of the European bats towards red and white light sources when the seasonal migration happens and based on the research, the activities of two varieties of bats which are Soprano pipistrelles and Nathusius’ pipistrelles were recorded frequently near red LED lights.
It was discovered that the bats were attracted more to red lights during migration than white LED lights. The wavelength of the red LED lights and red safety lights used by aircraft pilots was similar.
These danger or warning lights attract the migratory bats more towards the danger areas leading to collisions of the bats and other casualties. According to the scientists, on-demand lighting that turns on only when airplanes approach could probably reduce the problem.
(With inputs from ANI)