Drone Light Shows
“Franchise Freedom,” a drone light show featuring 1,000 light-bearing drones, illuminates the New York City skyline. Photo: Arjen Van Eijk
THE DANGER OF DRONE LIGHT SHOWS
Drone light shows are a recent technological advancement, so research is limited on the effects of drone shows on birds.
However, we do know that artificial light at night poses a major threat to the millions of birds that migrate through New York City.
- Light pollution disrupts flight patterns and disorients millions of night-migrating birds, which significantly contributes to the quarter of a million fatal building collisions that happen each year in New York City.
- If not timed or sited correctly, drone shows can be detrimental to birds, affecting migration and amplifying the biggest threat presented by New York City: collisions with glass.
While these lights may not seem like a major concern, it’s another threat to biodiversity that is already at risk.
- Migratory bird populations are doing poorly in North America; the US and Canada have lost 3 billion breeding birds in the past 50 years. That is 1 in 4 birds.
- Colonial nesting birds, such as those on New York City’s harbor islands and beaches, are also at risk from drone shows because of their propensity for disturbance and nest abandonment.
- With so many bird species at risk due to climate change and habitat loss, anything that poses a threat to migratory species must be addressed.
GUIDANCE FOR FUTURE DRONE SHOWS IN NYC
For the safety of migrating birds, drone shows should avoid migration seasons (mid-March through early June; mid-August through mid-November).
- Improperly sited and timed drone shows pose a hazard for the millions of birds traveling over New York City on their ancient migratory routes.
- The majority of birds migrate at night when risk factors (like predation) are lower—but it is now a time when light pollution in urban areas peaks and birds are in danger.
2023 drone light show in Central Park. Photo: DRIFT
DRONE LIGHT SHOW REPORT (2024)
In March 2024, NYC Bird Alliance (then NYC Audubon) shared a report with the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation with recommendations to ensure that future light shows are bird-safe.
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As drone light shows become more common, there is a need for better guidelines. For future drone shows, NYC Bird Alliance hopes to consult on bird-friendly siting and timing guidelines across the City.
