SPEA says in a statement that from mid-September "the juveniles of these birds leave their nests in the mountainous areas of the island to make their first trip towards the sea," guided by the light of the moon and stars.

The lights of the cities can, however, "disorient them and attract them to urbanised areas, increasing the risk of collision, being run over and predation," so the blackout on Sunday "is a simple way to contribute to the success of this first trip."

SPEA also warns of the importance of reducing artificial light throughout the period, urging the public to turn off outdoor lighting between 8 pm and 11 pm, between Câmara de Lobos and Funchal and between Machico and Santana.

“The Madeira petrel is one of the rarest species in all of Europe and is critically endangered. The first flights of juveniles are one of the most important stages for the survival of the species,” emphasises Cátia Gouveia, coordinator of SPEA-BirdLife Madeira, quoted in the statement.

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