Bird Window Strikes
Window strikes are the number one cause of bird deaths. We receive many injured birds every year due to window strikes. We also receive calls for help on eliminating this problem. According
to the ornithologist Dr. Daniel Klem, who has been studying birds for
over 30 years, more than 1 billion birds die each year in the USA
alone, due to collisions with windows.
Windows are
reflective and birds see escape routes or visible routes mirrored in
the glass and then fly into the window with a speed and force that can
often cause instant death. Homes with windows directly opposite one
another also pose a similar threat, because birds collide into unseen
windows en route to some visible target on the other side of the
home. Birds that seen stunned or do not die immediately may actually be
fatally injured as well or when stunned are highly susceptible to
predation.
At Sandy Pines Wildlife Centre, we admit and receive many calls each week about birds who have flown into windows. If
you find a bird who has struck a window, it may be necessary to pick it
up, put it in a box, close the flaps and place the box in a dark, warm,
quiet place. The bird should be checked hourly. If it has revived, it
can be taken outside and hopefully will fly away. If you suspect that
the injury is serious call SPWC at (613) 354-0264.
How to Make Windows Safe for Birds
Feeder Placement
Many
birds strike windows after being startled off a feeder. Bird feeders
placed within 3 feet of windows can reduce fatal collisions, because
birds do not have an adequate distance to reach high flight velocity.
Placing the feeders more than 30 feet from a window will also reduce
window collision risk because, at that distance, birds are more likely
to recognize that the reflected image is part of a house and are less
likely to fly toward it for safety. For homes with feeders, this is an easy and excellent way to reduce deadly window strikes.
Window Coverings
When drawn, white
or light-coloured window coverings eliminate much of the mirror effect
or transparency of windows. Drawing curtains is especially important
during peak migration times, when the numbers of birds flying both day
and night are increased. Drawing curtains or blinds when leaving for work, at night or when on vacation is good practice.
Bug Screens
Bug or summer
screens on the outside of exterior glass kept in place year-round will
cut down on reflectivity and transparency, while acting as a barrier to
birds and insects during warmer months. In
newer construction, double paned windows can be shielded by screens. In
older homes with storm windows, screens should be switched with
exterior glass.
Items Hung Outside the Window
Objects hung
outside the window that move create an interference pattern that
reduces the mirror effect of reflective windows and make transparent
windows more visible. The movement will cause a bird to avoid that area and thus decrease the likelihood that it will fly into the window. You can make your own silhouettes
from wood or other materials, and hang them or use a suction cup to
attach it to the outer window. Old CDs can also be hung in this
fashion.
Objects such
as ribbon draped on the exterior side of a window must also be spaced
strategically to create density. This density causes too much visual
obstruction for many people. Covering just a portion of a window is
better than no coverage at all.
Window Decals
Decals create
an interference pattern that reduces the mirror effect of reflective
windows and make transparent windows more visible. Although decals are
easily affixed to windows, they must be spaced close to each other to
be effective – at most 2 inches apart horizontally, and 4 inches apart
vertically. Covering just a portion of a window is better than no
coverage at all.
Bird Netting
Fine mesh netting stretched tightly over
an entire window causes birds to "bounce" away before crashing into
window glass and does not obstruct the view. This works well but
requires some do-it-yourself abilities, and poses bird entanglement
risk if not properly installed. Netting must be taut and at the
appropriate distance from the window. Adhere to instructions available
with product or on the internet.
Window Film
An opaque
sheet of plastic attached to windows gives them a solid appearance.
This isn’t very practical since window films currently available to the
general public limit visibility from indoors.
Window Guards
Decorative guards can be hung outside in front
of your window. They are 3 feet long and easily attachable with suction
cups. They are made with feathers, and are available in bright
or natural colours. They are only $5.00 each (with 100% of proceeds
going to SPWC), and are
available at SPWC or ordered by mail (add $1.00 to cover postage). To
request window guards, send your request stating the quantity and model
type, with your address and cheque payable to:
Sandy Pines Wildlife Centre
8749 County Rd 2 Napanee, ON K7R 3L1
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Bird Window Strikes