The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is urging New Yorkers to participate in the 'Lights Out' initiative to protect birds as they return to the state. By turning off non-essential outdoor lighting from 11 p.m. until dawn until June 1, individuals can help prevent fatal light attraction and bird collisions. This simple action can save billions of bird lives annually and contribute to the conservation of various bird species. The initiative aligns with national efforts to reduce bird collisions and promote safe migratory journeys for birds flying through New York.