Birds will often collide with the windows in buildings because of their reflective surfaces. These surfaces reflect the landscape around them and confuse the birds, causing a collision with your windows. Also, if you leave lights on at night, the glow can be enticing to birds.
Both of these situations are responsible for millions of bird deaths every year. If bird collisions are common occurrences for you, it is time to look into preventive measures. There are several ways you can prevent bird collisions from happening.
Identify The Danger Zones
The first step is to identify the main source of collision. You can do this by going outside and putting yourself in a bird’s shoes. Glass can appear differently depending on the light. The types of windows a house or building has can have an effect on the number of bird collisions. Bird collisions can become common occurrences if a home has large picture windows that angle toward each other. They can also be quite common if a bird feeder is up placed by a window. Glass doors can make a house feel more inviting to guests, but this can also invite unintended guests: birds. It is vital to address all these factors when bird proofing your home.
Create a Barrier
If you make it seem like there is a barrier in the glass, it can help stop a bird from colliding with your window. You can do this by putting a dense pattern on the outside of your window. If you put them on the inside, they are useless. To ensure that everything works as it should, the sizes of the markings are vital. The tiniest possible marking you should use is ¼ of an inch, but the ideal barrier should be 2 x 2 inches. The color of these markings matters as well. If you have tinted windows, choose high contrast markings and do not use dark markings because they will not show up. If you have clear glass windows, dark markings will work.
Using Other Materials
Sometimes a suitable obstacle can be strings or paracords that run the length of the windows. If you use this option, they cannot be more than 4 inches apart. 2 inches is ideal. Tape can also work if applied to the outside of the window in a grid-like pattern. You can also use window decals, but to ensure effectiveness; it needs to be in a grid pattern.
Outside Barriers
When replacing windows, think about bird proofing measures you can add. The most practical of these measures are insect screens, but you can also use netting. The netting needs to be 3 inches from the window and should be taut. This will ensure that birds bounce off instead of hitting the window. These are best attached to storm-window frames. Some awnings, shutters, or shades will make the outside of your window look good and act as a deterrent.
Bird Awareness
While you can take these measures to bird-proof your home, you should also keep the habits of birds in mind. Birds are most vulnerable in the Spring and Fall due to their migration patterns. Instead of opening your vertical indoor blinds completely, open them halfway. Light will still be allowed in, but the open window will not be a threat to birds. At night, turn off any unnecessary lights and close the blinds to ward off any birds who might get confused.
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