Gateway Arch to go dark in September for migrating birds

ST. LOUIS - The Gateway Arch will go dark for the month of September to help migrating birds.

The lights illuminating the Gateway Arch will be turned off throughout the month to reduce light pollution, which can disorient birds and interfere with their migratory patterns.

According to Gateway Arch National Park, 40 percent of all birds migrating in September travel along the Mississippi River corridor. During their long-distance migrations, birds may become disoriented and collide due to artificial lights, which the park aims to prevent.

The lights are scheduled to be turned back on October 1, marking the end of the migration assistance period.

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