Train Your Bird

How to Stop Birds from Hitting Your Windows: A Comprehensive Guide

Posted on by Jonh Luke
An American Goldfinch, a small yellow bird, lying deceased after a window strike, emphasizing the fatal impact of collisions.

Bird window collisions are a tragically common and often fatal occurrence, silently claiming the lives of countless birds each year. For these creatures, a window is far from invisible; it often reflects the inviting illusion of open sky or lush foliage, leading them to fly directly into solid glass. This widespread issue is not confined to towering city skyscrapers; in fact, low-rise buildings and residential homes contribute significantly to the grim toll simply due to their sheer abundance. Researchers and bird conservationists are actively exploring and implementing various window treatments and specialized glass technologies to mitigate this pervasive threat, offering hope for a safer environment for our avian neighbors.

Estimates suggest that up to a staggering one billion birds perish annually in the U.S. due to window strikes. This dire statistic underscores the urgency of understanding why these collisions happen and, more importantly, what actionable steps homeowners and building managers can take to prevent them. Christine Sheppard, who directs the Bird Collisions Program at the American Bird Conservancy, emphasizes that simple remedies can dramatically reduce the danger your home’s windows pose to birds. Organizations like the American Bird Conservancy and the Fatal Light Awareness Program (FLAP) provide extensive resources and proven strategies to help safeguard avian populations from this man-made hazard. Even if a bird appears merely stunned after a collision and flies away, it may still succumb later to internal bleeding or brain trauma, making prevention the most critical intervention. Daniel Klem of Muhlenberg College, a leading researcher on this issue since the 1970s, succinctly states that “Glass is an indiscriminate killer that takes the fit as well as the unfit of a species’ population,” highlighting the indiscriminate nature of this threat.

The Silent Killer: Why Birds Collide with Windows

Birds predominantly crash into windows because they perceive reflections of vegetation or the sky as continuous open space. Alternatively, they may see through the glass to potted plants or natural vegetation on the other side, mistaking it for a safe passage. These collisions can occur at any time of day and in any season, but they are most prevalent during dawn and dusk, particularly throughout the spring and fall migration periods.

Many bird species undertake their migratory journeys at night. As dawn breaks, they descend to find rest, shelter, and sustenance to refuel for the subsequent night’s travel. Conversely, at dusk, they take flight once more to continue their migration. In both scenarios, the act of entering or exiting vegetated areas places birds at high risk of misinterpreting reflections in glass as actual habitat, leading to fatal impacts.

At night, artificial lighting plays a significant role in drawing migrating birds off course, particularly in urban environments with low cloud ceilings or foggy conditions. Once disoriented and diverted from their intended path, they might find temporary roosting spots, only to become vulnerable to deceptive daytime window reflections the following day. Initiatives like the Bird Collision Prevention Alliance and the BirdCast project actively address these complex issues, advocating for “Lights Out” campaigns to reduce nocturnal disorientation.

There is also another, less lethal, reason for birds interacting with windows: “reflection aggression.” This occurs when a bird sees its own reflection in a window and perceives it as a rival, leading to territorial attacks on the glass. This behavior is most common in spring when territorial instincts are at their peak. While it can be annoying for homeowners, it rarely poses a threat to the bird’s survival. Fortunately, most of the remedies designed to prevent window strikes will also effectively mitigate instances of reflection aggression.

An American Goldfinch, a small yellow bird, lying deceased after a window strike, emphasizing the fatal impact of collisions.An American Goldfinch, a small yellow bird, lying deceased after a window strike, emphasizing the fatal impact of collisions.

Effective Ways to Make Your Windows Bird-Safe

Protecting birds from window collisions begins with identifying the most dangerous windows on your property. This often includes large picture windows, windows positioned at right angles to each other, or those with bird feeders located nearby. To get a bird’s-eye view, step outside and observe your windows. If you can see branches, sky, or other natural elements reflected in or visible through the glass, birds will perceive the same illusions. Previous recommendations regarding safe distances for feeders are now considered less critical; instead, the focus is on making windows near feeders bird-friendly, regardless of the precise distance.

Treatments for Existing Windows

To effectively deter small birds, any markings or deterrents on windows should be uniformly spaced two inches apart across the entire exterior surface of the glass. This tight spacing is crucial for safeguarding even the smallest species, such as hummingbirds, gnatcatchers, siskins, and kinglets, ensuring they cannot perceive an open flight path. Acopian BirdSavers, which consist of paracord, can be spaced four inches apart due to their enhanced visibility. It is imperative that all marking techniques are applied to the outside of the window for maximum effectiveness.

  • Tempera Paint or Soap: An inexpensive yet long-lasting solution is to mark the outside of your windows with tempera paint or soap. You can opt for a simple grid pattern, adhering to the recommended two-inch by two-inch spacing, or unleash your creativity by painting intricate patterns or artwork directly onto the glass.
  • Decals and Stickers: Applying decals, stickers, sun catchers, mylar strips, masking tape, or even sticky notes to the exterior surface of your windows can be effective. However, their efficacy hinges on very close spacing; a single sticker or two on a large window will not prevent collisions. The key is to cover enough of the glass so that the spaces between the deterrents are too narrow for birds to attempt flying through. Notably, hawk silhouettes have been found to do little in deterring birds.
  • Dot Patterns and Tape: For an easier and more consistent application of correct spacing, long-lasting tape products designed with dot patterns are an excellent choice. Products from companies like Feather Friendly are specifically engineered to prevent bird collisions by creating a visible barrier without significantly obstructing your view.
  • Acopian BirdSavers (Zen Curtains): These highly effective “zen curtains” feature closely spaced cords that hang down over windows. They offer a simple, aesthetically pleasing alternative to tape or decals and are known for their ease of installation and high success rate in preventing collisions. The Cornell Lab headquarters utilizes these “zen curtains” to safeguard its windows, and you can either purchase them custom-made or craft your own.
  • Screens: Installing exterior mosquito screens over your windows is a highly effective deterrent, provided they cover the entire surface of the glass. The mesh acts as a physical barrier that birds can see and avoid.
  • One-Way Transparent Film: Products such as Collidescape allow occupants to see out clearly while making the window appear opaque from the outside. These films not only reduce collisions but can also decrease the amount of light entering your home, potentially lowering cooling costs, as noted by Christine Sheppard.

A window reflecting a lush green landscape, posing a deadly hazard to birds who mistake the reflection for real habitat.A window reflecting a lush green landscape, posing a deadly hazard to birds who mistake the reflection for real habitat.

Considerations for New Homes and Remodels

If you are building a new home or undertaking a major remodel, you have an excellent opportunity to integrate bird-friendly designs from the outset.

  • External Shutters: Install external shutters and make it a habit to keep them closed when you are not actively using the room or enjoying the light and view. Beyond bird safety, external shutters can also significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency.
  • External Sun Shades or Awnings: Adding external sun shades or awnings to your windows can effectively block reflections of sunlight and foliage, reducing their deceptive appearance. Remote-controlled versions are available for added convenience.
  • Exterior Screens: When installing new windows, consider options that feature screens on the entire outside of the glass. This provides a permanent and effective barrier against collisions.
  • Interior Vertical Blinds: Utilizing interior vertical blinds and keeping their slats only partially open can break up the reflective surface of the window, making it more visible to birds.
  • Avoid Visual Paths to Sky and Greenery: Be mindful of interior layouts where a bright window on an opposite wall might create the illusion of an open path through your picture window. Simply closing a window shade or a door between rooms can sometimes resolve this misleading visual cue.

The Role of ‘Lights Out’ Initiatives

The pervasive all-night glow of office buildings and streetlights in urban areas presents a particular danger for migrating birds, drawing them off their natural course, delaying their journeys, and making them more susceptible to window collisions. “Lights Out” initiatives are gaining significant traction in U.S. cities, including Dallas, Houston, Philadelphia, and New York, aiming to mitigate this problem. Turning off nonessential lights and installing downward-facing lighting are relatively straightforward actions that can dramatically reduce the adverse effects of artificial light at night on avian populations. Even with city-wide efforts, it remains prudent for homeowners to implement the aforementioned precautions against window collisions.

A clear imprint of a Mourning Dove left on a window after a collision, illustrating the force and tragic outcome of bird strikes.A clear imprint of a Mourning Dove left on a window after a collision, illustrating the force and tragic outcome of bird strikes.

What to Do If a Bird Strikes Your Window

Despite all preventive measures, collisions can still occur. If you find a bird that has struck a window and appears dazed or injured, its best chance for recovery is immediate assistance from a wildlife rehabilitation facility. Window collision victims may suffer from internal injuries or pain that are not immediately visible but can worsen over time. Left alone, they are also highly vulnerable to predators and pedestrian traffic.

Here’s a guide on how to safely help a bird that has collided with a window:

  • Capture and Contain: Approach the bird carefully from behind and use both hands to gently cover it. The bird may flutter or vocalize, but remain calm. Remember that small birds are very fragile; hold the bird gently but securely, avoiding any tight squeezing of its body.
  • Provide a Safe Container: Find a suitable container such as an unwaxed paper bag or a small cardboard box. Line it with tissue paper or a paper towel to provide grip for the bird’s feet. Place the closed container in a dark, quiet, warm location, safely away from children and household pets, to minimize stress.
  • Do Not Handle, Feed, or Water: Once the bird is in the container, resist the urge to handle, feed, or offer it water. Wild birds instinctively perceive humans as predators, and unnecessary interaction will only increase their stress, potentially hindering their recovery.
  • Find a Local Rehabilitator: Utilize an online directory, such as the one provided by the Humane Society, to locate a wildlife rehabilitator near you. Contact them immediately for further instructions. If you are unable to transport the bird, inform the facility, as they may be able to suggest alternative arrangements.
  • Releasing the Bird (If Instructed): If the wildlife facility advises you to attempt releasing the bird, choose a wooded area or other appropriate habitat far from buildings. Before opening the container, maintain some distance from trees or vegetation to allow you to observe the bird’s flight path. Point the bag or box towards the vegetation and slowly open the top. If the bird does not fly strongly or appears disoriented, try to recapture it gently and reconnect with the wildlife rehabilitation facility for more guidance.

Conclusion

Preventing bird window collisions is a critical aspect of wildlife conservation that every homeowner can contribute to. Understanding the reasons behind these tragic impacts, from deceptive reflections to disorienting artificial lights, empowers us to implement effective, humane solutions. Whether through simple DIY methods like applying paint patterns, installing specialized films, or considering bird-friendly designs in new constructions, every effort makes a significant difference. Furthermore, knowing how to safely assist an injured bird underscores our responsibility towards these vulnerable creatures. By adopting these strategies, we can transform our homes and communities into safer havens, allowing birds to navigate their world without the deadly threat of invisible glass. Your actions can help save countless bird lives and foster a healthier, more harmonious environment for all.

References

Jonh Luke

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