Wildlife Sensitive Lighting Protecting the Wildlife We Love With the Right Wavelengths of Light
Confused and disoriented by traditional white lighting, which increases their risk of death, sea turtle hatchlings depend on natural moonlight to successfully navigate from their nests to the ocean. Long wavelengths of native amber light, including 590 nm, protect nesting populations by supporting this nest to ocean transition. Compliance guidelines issued by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) include lighting, and are designed to protect nesting populations along Florida’s coastline, where 90% of sea turtle nesting occurs.
In addition to sea turtles, amber lighting helps protect other species of wildlife, including birds, frogs, bats, and small mammals. To optimize this protection, shielding, dimming, and timing controls should also be considered when lighting wildlife habitats.
Lighting Design Guidelines
Wildlife-Friendly Lighting Best Practices
Keep It Low
Position lighting as low as practical for the intended application and use the lowest light output necessary to achieve the required visibility.
Keep It Long
Use long-wavelength light sources whenever possible. For wildlife-sensitive environments, wavelengths of 560 nm or greater, from amber through red, are recommended.
Keep It Shielded
Direct light downward and fully shield the light source. Fixtures should prevent light from being visible from the beach or other sensitive habitats.
Corporate Social Responsibility
Committed to Conservation
Kenall’s amber lighting supports Legrand’s Corporate Social Responsibility commitment, which includes sustainable development for life on land and life below water. Protecting the habitat of endangered sea turtles helps protect them—a goal we proudly support. At Kenall, we’re committed to lighting the way for a better tomorrow, today.