Why do birds fly into windows?
Birds often accidentally fly into windows for a few key reasons:
- They see reflections of trees or sky in the glass and think they can fly right through.
- Transparent or reflective glass looks like open air to them.
- They are being chased by a predator and aren’t paying attention to what’s ahead.
Birds strike windows because they either don’t see the glass at all or see it too late to change course. This can result in serious injury or death for millions of birds each year.
How can I prevent bird strikes on my windows?
There are several effective options for deterring birds from hitting your windows:
Apply decals or tape
Applying decals, tape, or other patterns to the outside of windows can help alert birds to the presence of glass before they attempt to fly through. Vertical stripes or dots spaced no more than 4 inches apart work best. The key is to make the surface visually noisy so birds can’t see a clear passage.
Install external screens
Exterior screens over windows create a physical barrier to block birds. These can be permanent screens or seasonal ones installed during main migration periods in spring and fall. For best results, screens should be taut with a mesh size of 1/4 inch or smaller.
Use UV-reflective film
UV-reflective window films are invisible to humans but glow like brightly-lit glass to birds who see UV light. Applying these films in patches or strips signals to birds that they won’t be able to fly through.
Position feeders and vegetation carefully
Bird feeders or plants too close to windows can inadvertently create collision hazards. Position them at least 3 feet away so birds have room to slow down and change direction. Also prune vegetation to minimize reflections.
Shut curtains and blinds
Drawing curtains, blinds, or shades in problem windows removes reflections and helps prevent daytime strikes. This is a simple, inexpensive option.
What are the best decals and tapes to use?
Here are some good options for bird deterrent stickers and tapes:
Product | Details |
---|---|
TEMPERA Stickers | Small dots available in various colors and sized for different window dimensions |
Solyx Bird-Safety Film | Rainbow-patterned UV-reflective decal film that can be custom cut |
3M Feather Friendly Dot Matrix Tape | White dots on a black background spaced 2-4 inches apart |
Bird Crash Preventer Window Tape | Translucent white tape in 4-inch strips |
XYZ Bird Warning Tape | Black and white stripes create visual noise on glass |
The key is to choose a product designed specifically for deterring bird strikes that has stripes, dots, or patterns spaced no more than 4 inches apart. Install on the exterior surface in vertical rows or grids for optimum effectiveness.
When should I apply deterrents to prevent migrations crashes?
The peak times when birds are migrating and most apt to collide with windows are spring and fall. Apply deterrents to windows according to this seasonal schedule:
- Mid-March to early June
- Mid-August to end of November
Focus on windows that reflect sky or vegetation and picture windows, as these tend to be the most problematic.
Deterrents can be removed during winter months when most birds have completed migration. However, leaving them in place year-round provides added protection.
How can I reduce daytime bird strikes?
Daytime window collisions occur because birds see reflections of plants, sky, and branches in the glass. Here are some tips to minimize daytime risks:
- Apply exterior window films or decals on problem windows
- Install external sun shades above windows
- Use interior blinds and curtains to block reflections
- Position bird feeders and plants at least 3 feet away from windows
- Prune nearby tree branches to reduce reflections
A combination of exterior deterrents and interior measures to block views works best to prevent daytime strikes.
How can I prevent nighttime collisions?
At night, birds can become disoriented by artificial lights and hit lighted windows. Follow these tips to reduce nocturnal risks:
- Turn off unnecessary exterior and interior lights from 11 pm to 6 am during migration seasons
- Install interior blinds or curtains and close them at night
- Use lower wattage, shielded, or red spectrum lights close to windows
- Apply UV-reflective window film in strips or dots to exterior glass
- Lower temperatures around lighted windows with air conditioning
Eliminating unnecessary lighting and creating physical barriers on windows are most effective for preventing nighttime collisions.
What should I do if I find an injured bird?
If you discover an injured bird after a window strike, here are important steps to help:
- Gently place the bird in a cardboard box lined with a soft cloth. Keep in a warm, dark, quiet place.
- Do not try to give the bird food or water.
- Contact a local wildlife rehabilitation center or veterinarian experienced in bird care for assessment and treatment.
- Monitor the bird until professional help is obtained. Keep children and pets away to minimize stress.
Getting the bird expert care quickly is vital for its recovery chances. Never attempt to treat injuries on your own.
Conclusion
Preventing bird-window collisions involves using deterrents like decals, screens, and UV-reflective films, carefully managing vegetation and lighting, and taking steps to minimize reflections. Concentrate efforts during migration seasons in spring and fall when risk is highest. Stay alert for daytime and nighttime strike risks. With some diligence, you can make your windows bird-friendly and reduce the risk of injurious and fatal collisions. Doing your part helps conserve fragile bird populations for future generations to enjoy.