A public campaign is currently in effect on five buses from the Horários do Funchal fleet, numbered 511, 525, 214, 526, and 201, running from October 2 to November 30. The message emphasizes the importance of reducing outdoor lighting to help save seabirds, preventing them from being disoriented by artificial night lights and ensuring they can fly safely to the sea.
Between October 15 and November 15, juvenile shearwaters (Calonectris borealis) leave their nests and make their first flight toward the sea, navigating by the light of the moon and stars. However, due to increasing light pollution, these birds can become disoriented and end up in our cities. We can help by reducing lighting or volunteering for seabird rescue campaigns, which take place from October 23 to November 5.
Please pay attention, as seabirds may need your help:
- Make sure you have what you need to handle the bird: a cardboard box with holes, a blanket and/or gloves, and your mobile phone.
- Approach calmly and, with the blanket in hand, cover the bird and transfer it into the box, keeping it in a quiet and dark place.
- Contact the SOS Wildlife Network of the Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation, RAM, at 961957545 for bird collection.
This advertising campaign was supported by the company Horários do Funchal, as part of the LIFE Natura@night project. If you see any of these buses on the streets of Funchal, please take note and send it to us.
