Prevent Bird–Window Strikes

According to published estimates, between 98 million to one billion birds are killed in glass window collisions each year. Windows often show a reflection of vegetation or sky, and birds flying towards the windows do not realize there is a glass barrier there. Sometimes they can avoid the window at the last moment, but often they strike the window at a speed fast enough to cause their death or serious injury.

You can help reduce the possibility of bird–window strikes. To help prevent birds from striking glass:

1. Use window screens. Screens limit reflection, and they provide a softer material than glass if a bird does fly into the window.
2. Break up the reflection in the window. If your windows do not have screens, plant shrubs or trees near the window to obstruct the bird’s view of the glass. Suspend branches or shiny objects over windows that are struck often, or consider placing multiple decals on the windows.
3. If bird feeders are near windows, make sure the windows are bird friendly by using multiple decals, tape, netting or other techniques.
4. If you are ordering replacement windows, ask for bird-friendly glass that includes patterns in ultraviolet, ceramic (“frit”), etch, or printed patterns.

Check out the All About Birds page for more information about why birds hit windows and what you can do to help.