ALBANY, N.Y. (WHCU) – The death of Flaco the Owl in New York City has inspired a renewed push to pass two bills to protect birds.

Assemblymember Anna Kelles and other State Legislators are moving to get the Bird Safe Buildings Act, now renamed the FLACO Act, and the Dark Skies Protection Act passed after the untimely passing of the owl that died after escaping from the Central Park Zoo. The lawmakers are joined by New York City Audubon and Audubon New York in their efforts.

The FLACO Act would require “any new or significantly altered state buildings” to incorporate bird-friendly designs, particularly in their windows. Research shows more than a billion birds across the country, including nearly a quarter of a million in New York City, die each year from collisions with buildings. It’s the second leading cause of death for birds.

“It was a heart-wrenching story to read about the death of Flaco the owl, most specifically because it was senseless, unnecessary, and human-driven death,” said Kelles. “If we had simply taken the small effort to add window treatments to our buildings, we could have prevented his death and continued our collective awe and hope that his freedom gave to us all.”

The related bill, the Dark Skies Protection Act, aims to reduce artificial light in night skies by requiring most non-essential outdoor lighting be covered by an external shield, be motion-activated, or turned off between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. About 80% of migrating birds move at night and light pollution can disrupt their sense of environment and draw them into urban areas.

“Birds are a critical part of a healthy ecosystem, and birds like Flaco reminds us of the magic of these animals,” said NYC Audubon Executive Director Jessica Wilson. “The simple acts of turning lights off at night, and making windows safer for birds, will ensure a better environment for birds and for people.”

According to the American Bird Conservancy, 25% of the world’s bird population has perished since 1970.