The Transparent Killer: Why Bird Window Collisions Happen and How Can We Help
In today's contemporary society, numerous factors pose a threat to the lives of birds. Statistical data reveals that the most perilous hazard is the translucent window present in residential homes. Birds often collide with these seemingly invisible killers primarily due to their inability to perceive glass as a solid barrier.
Researchers estimate that up to 1 billion birds die every year in the United States alone from colliding with a window—this makes window collisions one of the top three threats to wild bird populations, third only to habitat destruction and cats.
Researchers estimate that up to 1 billion birds die every year in the United States alone from colliding with a window—this makes window collisions one of the top three threats to wild bird populations, third only to habitat destruction and cats.
But WHY?
Here's the answer:
"Reflections", "Transparency", "Disorientation", and "Territorial behavior".
Windows often reflect the surrounding environment, such as trees, sky, or other natural elements. Birds perceive these reflections as part of the actual landscape and fly towards them, ultimately colliding with the glass.
In some cases, windows can be transparent enough for birds to see through them, making the glass seem like an open passage. This is especially true if there are plants or other attractions visible on the other side of the glass.
Birds can become disoriented due to factors like artificial lighting or adverse weather conditions. In such cases, they might accidentally fly into windows while attempting to find shelter or navigate their way.
Some bird species are known to engage in territorial behavior, which involves defending their territory against rival birds. When they see their reflection in a window, they may mistake it for an intruder and attack, leading to collisions.
Is there anything we can do to help prevent birds from crashing into windows?
You can take several measures, such as:
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Applying decals, stickers, or bird tape on the exterior side of windows to prevent birds from having a fatal collision with your windows by providing them with visual cues that glass is present. There are lots of do-it-yourself options to treat your windows at home. To be most effective, it’s important that markers are closely spaced, in high contrast, and on the outside surface of the glass.
You may want to consider purchasing small stickers to decorate your windows and prevent birds from mistaking them for transparent spaces. We offer exclusive Birdfy stickers designed specifically for common backyard birds. Click here to make a purchase and add an extra touch of safety and charm to your windows!
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Installing window screens or external shades to reduce reflections and transparency. External insect screens reduce bird collisions by minimizing window reflections and alerting birds that windows are barriers. Netting prevents injuries to birds if it’s placed inches in front of the window and stretched tight to prevent birds from hitting the glass.
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Using bird-safe glass, which is designed to be more visible to birds. Bird-safe glass is designed with special patterns that are visible to birds, reducing the risk of bird collisions, and ensuring the safety of our feathered friends.
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Turning off or reducing the intensity of artificial lights, especially during migratory seasons. Artificial light is scattered across the landscape of the entire world, and birds are frequently attracted to lighting, especially during inclement weather events during migration. Unfortunately, lights can cause confusion, disorientation, and exhaustion , directly impacting their ability to migrate.
The most direct way is placing your feeders or bird baths at a safe distance from windows to reduce the likelihood of collisions. So you might need a birdfeeder that has various methods of installation, consider Birdfy Smart Bird Feeder, Netvue Birdfy Feeder Cam is a perfect bird feeder plus a perfect camera, which detects and records birds' moments for you. Screw, strap, and tripod, three ways to install, give you several options to keep the feeder away from your windows. Click HERE to Secure Your Bird Feeder in Your Shopping Cart Today!
