Dark Skies
Nature Series
I notice it, because when I look out of my window towards the woods, instead of the natural darkness, there’s a grotto of coloured lights glowing all night, which is such a shame, because the sky and trees could be beautiful on their own.
Light pollution happens when outdoor lighting is too bright, badly placed, or left on when it isn’t really needed to be, and instead of lighting only the ground, it spills into the sky creating a glare that drowns out the stars above.
The negatives of Light Pollution:
Wildlife: Many creatures rely on natural darkness to move around, unseen. Birds migrate by using the stars, bats feed at night, along with other nocturnal animals. Insects are drawn to bright bulbs instead of pollinating plants. Too much light interrupts natural behaviours of wildlife.
Human health: Artificial light at night interferes with our body clocks (it definitely does mine now). It can disturb sleep, affect our mood, and contribute to feelings of fatigue.
Environment & cost: Lights burning all night use energy unnecessarily, adding to bills and carbon emissions
The positives of Darker Skies:
Seeing the stars: A clear night sky is one of nature’s simplest joys, but it’s only visible if we limit stray light.
Better for wildlife: Creatures can move, rest, and feed without confusion. Gardens and green spaces stay healthier.
Peace & rest: Less glare makes for calmer evenings, more natural sleep, and quieter outdoor spaces.
Safer lighting: Using motion sensors, lower wattage, and downward-facing lights keeps paths and doors visible without the excess glow.
Protecting dark skies doesn’t mean no light at all, it’s about using the right light, in the right place, at the right time. By turning off what isn’t needed, or switching to softer, shielded lighting, we can all enjoy the benefits of safer, calmer nights and star filled skies.
It’s amazing how much calmer and more restful the evenings feel when there’s less glare, and on a clear night, you really notice the stars. It’s why I often go away for the night to the Yorkshire Dales.
Another reason we bought a house with a big garden…
