Millions of migratory birds are killed every year when they collide with one of the thousands of communication towers scattered across the United States.

As more and more cell phone, radio and digital television towers are built, the escalating kills could soon spell disaster for many already at-risk songbirds like the Bell’s Vireo, Golden-winged Warbler and Bachman’s Sparrow.

Simple improvements to the structures, location, lighting and other details of new communication towers can significantly reduce the numbers of birds killed each year.

The Federal Communications Commission, which could require these improvements, has been reluctant to implement new regulations due to pressure from communications industries. But the FCC is taking public comments on the subject. The deadline for submitting comments is January 22.

The environmental group Earth Justice is urging the public to get involved and help pressure the FCC is take action. To learn more, go to the group's online action alert.