Birds are one of the beautiful creations in nature, and watching them chirping and flying in the sky is a fascinating experience. But, have you ever seen a bird flying into a window? Bird-window collisions occur more often than you might think, and it’s not just bird-watching enthusiasts who notice this strange behavior.

The sight of a bird hitting a window can be disturbing and concerning, and there are many different reasons why it can happen. In this article, we will discuss why birds fly into windows, what can be done to prevent bird-window collisions, and whether it is harmful to birds to fly into a window.

Why do birds fly into windows?

There are several reasons why a bird may fly into a window. One of the most common reasons is that birds cannot see glass, and they view reflections as open spaces. Birds have excellent vision, but their visual systems are not developed to identify vertical surfaces like windows. They fly towards what they perceive to be an open space, only to collide with the glass. The glass reflects the sky or surrounding vegetation, giving the impression that there is a clear path for the bird. This often happens during the spring, as birds become territorial and aggressive during mating season and fight their own reflection in the glass.

Another reason for bird collisions with windows is that the bird may be disoriented. This could occur after a night migration or because of glass that reflects nearby trees, throwing off the bird’s navigational system. Birds also tend to avoid bright lights, so illuminated windows at night can also cause confusion and accidents.

Is it harmful to birds to fly into windows?

Unfortunately, bird-window collisions can be fatal for birds. The impact can cause serious injuries, including broken wings, legs, and necks. The bird can also die from blunt force trauma. It is estimated that hundreds of millions of birds are killed each year in North America alone due to collisions with buildings.

Susan Bonfield, executive director of the Environment for the Americas, a nonprofit organization based in Colorado, says, “Birds fly into windows more often than you think. It’s a big impact at a high speed, and they can be injured severely. It can also be costly for homeowners to repair the damage from collisions.”

What can be done to prevent birds from flying into windows?

Preventing bird-window crashes may seem difficult, but there are many strategies that homeowners can use to make their homes and workplaces safer for birds.

Use bird-friendly window treatments

The best way to prevent bird collisions with windows is to use bird-friendly window treatments such as netting, screens, or decals. The use of screens or netting will reduce the transparency of the windows without obstructing the view from inside. The bird decals or stickers can be stuck on the outside of the window, reducing the reflection and making it easier for the birds to recognize that it’s a closed surface.

Install UV-reflective glass

Another effective way to prevent bird-window collisions is to install ultraviolet (UV) reflective glasses. This glass has a pattern of ultraviolet lines that are visible to birds but invisible to humans. The UV pattern makes the glass more visible to birds, reducing the risk of collisions. The downside of using UV reflective glass is that it can be expensive, and it reduces the clarity of the view.

Reduce indoor lighting at night

Avoiding bright lighting at night in office buildings or homes can also reduce the number of bird-window collisions. Birds tend to avoid bright lights, so reducing light pollution is beneficial, especially near tall buildings where migratory birds are at a higher risk of colliding with buildings. Try to keep the window shades drawn in the evenings, or switch to a motion-activated lighting system that will illuminate the area only when someone is present.

Add bird feeders and bird baths away from windows

Another way to prevent bird window collisions is to move bird feeders and bird baths away from windows. This reduces the possibility of a bird accidentally flying into a window while taking a sip or a snack.

Plant trees or shrubs near windows

Planting trees and shrubs near windows can also serve as visual barriers and reduce the reflection of the windows. This can be an attractive solution for homeowners who prefer a more natural look, but it requires regular maintenance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, bird-window collisions are a complex problem with no definite solution. Implementing different strategies to prevent bird-window crashes may help save birds’ lives, and it can also be beneficial for homeowners. By understanding why birds fly into windows, we can take steps to reduce or eliminate this issue. Simple actions like installing decals or netting, reducing indoor lighting, and keeping bird feeders away from windows can make a significant difference for birds and their survival in urban environments. As bird-watching enthusiasts, it’s our responsibility to take care of and protect these beautiful creatures.

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