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MANA, Kauai >> The annual fledging of Newell’s shearwater, or ao, and Hawaiian petrels, or uau, started Monday and continues through Dec. 15.

The Pacific Missile Range Facility in Mana said it’s a critical period for two of
Hawaii’s most threatened seabirds. PMRF, which hosted the base’s annual bird banding training last week, has started preparations for the fledging season that is known as PMRF’s Dark Skies Program.

Each year, young seabirds leave their mountain burrows for the first time and make their way to the ocean using the moon and stars as guides. However, bright artificial lights can disorient fledglings and put them at risk of injury or death.

Developed in partnership with federal, state and community groups, the PMRF Dark Skies Program plays
a vital role in protecting these threatened birds by reducing light pollution and ensuring safer passage for fledglings from the mountains to the sea.

Bird banding allows researchers to monitor migratory paths, access impacts of climate and gather data for conservation efforts. Since the Dark Skies Program’s start, the number of fallen seabirds at PMRF has decreased significantly, said PMRF.

“The Dark Skies Program demonstrates how environmental stewardship and mission readiness can work hand in hand,” said PMRF Commanding Officer Capt. Robert Prince. “Our ability to manage lighting at PMRF not only protects endangered seabirds, but it also supports the program’s research efforts and data gathering throughout the season.”

The base said the Dark Skies Program has contributed extensively to the recovery and survival of fledgling shearwaters and other native seabirds, assisting in providing a safe passage for potentially hundreds of fledglings that could have otherwise died from the impacts of artificial light pollution.

Some of the measures to reduce artificial light pollution include shielded lighting, reducing nonessential lights during peak fledging season, and community outreach to raise awareness about light pollution. These efforts have resulted in expanded awareness among Kauai residents and businesses about responsible lighting practices, and strengthened partnerships with environmental organizations and agencies committed to seabird recovery.

The leadership and dedication of PMRF officials overseeing the Dark Skies Program remain central to its success. Their work ensures that Kauai continues to be a place where seabirds thrive alongside vital defense operations.

As the fledging season continues through Dec. 15, PMRF reminds residents and businesses to do their part by dimming or shielding lights at night, and reporting any downed seabirds to the shearwater hotline at 808-635-5117. An option is to take the downed bird to the nearest aid station.

“Protecting Hawaii’s native species is a shared responsibility,” Prince said. “Through this program, we can continue to make a positive difference in our conservation efforts for future generations.”