Why Birds Hit Windows: How to Prevent It (and Nurse Injured Birds)

According to the American Bird Conservancy, bird-window collisions are a major global issue that affects billions of birds each year.

Unfortunately, we learned it the hard way.

Back in 2022, we moved from Miami Beach to the Mexican mountainside to be even closer to nature; we’re surrounded by lush vegetation that attracts all sorts of animals, including dozens of birds. As much as we love hearing them sing and fly around us, the harsh reality is that birds cannot see glass windows. 

Birds often fly into windows because they mistake reflections for open spaces or their natural habitats beyond the glass. This problem is particularly challenging for migratory birds, which may not be familiar with the area and its buildings. A study published in Biological Conservation found that buildings along migratory bird routes were responsible for the highest numbers of bird-window collisions.

The issue is not limited to The Americas, as high rates of bird-window collisions have also been reported in Europe, Australia, and other regions. This problem not only affects bird populations, but also has a ripple effect on ecosystems as birds play a crucial role in pollination, pest control, and seed dispersal.

Migratory birds, such as songbirds, thrushes, and warblers, are particularly vulnerable. These small birds with high metabolism require frequent feeding and are attracted to food sources like bird feeders in our gardens. To reduce the likelihood of collisions, bird feeders should be placed at least five meters away from windows. Raptors, waterfowl, and shorebirds are other birds commonly affected by window collisions.

How to prevent bird-window collisions

1. Stickers or wind-chimes
   There are several solutions that can be implemented. One of the most effective is to install bird-friendly window treatments such as films, decals, hanging wind-chimes and screens. These treatments can make glass more visible to birds, reducing the chances of collisions by up to 90%, according to the American Bird Conservancy. Decals are stickers that can be applied to windows, and screens are also effective in preventing collisions.

2. Adding plants and trees

   Landscaping can also help reduce bird-window collisions by breaking up reflections and reducing the likelihood of collisions. Planting bushes, shrubs, or other objects near windows is a highly effective method, particularly for those living in rural areas or close to nature. The University of Alberta conducted a study and found that landscaping can reduce bird-window collisions by up to 50%.

3. Reduce your brightness

   Light management techniques can also help prevent bird-window collisions by controlling the amount and intensity of light that shines through windows. Turning off or dimming lights at night can reduce the attraction of windows for nocturnal migrants. According to the Humane Society of the United States, reducing the brightness of indoor lights can reduce bird-window collisions by up to 70%.

4. Clean up

Keeping windows clean and debris-free can also prevent bird-window collisions. Dirty or smudged windows make it harder for birds to distinguish between reflections and actual space, increasing the likelihood of collisions. Ensuring that windows are clean and free of debris can help birds see the window and avoid collisions.

What can I do if a bird collided with a window?

1. If the bird is deeply injured, it is crucial to contact a local wildlife rehabilitator with experience in treating birds that have hit windows. They can provide guidance on how to care for the bird and treat its injuries. 

2. If the bird is just startled, place it in a dark, quiet location away from pets and other disturbances. Keep it warm. The bird should be monitored regularly to ensure that it is recovering and can fly before being released back into the wild.

3. If the bird is aware but too weak to fly, gently cusp it between your hands and slowly blow warm air, keeping it warm. If you have a dropper at hand, mix water with a bit of agave syrup and place a few drops of it close to its beak, being careful not to put the liquid in their nasal cavities. After a few minutes, it should regain its strength to fly away. 

Bird-window collisions pose a significant global problem that affects bird populations and ecosystems. By understanding the causes of these collisions and implementing effective solutions such as bird-friendly window treatments, landscaping, light management, and keeping windows clean and debris-free, we can help prevent bird-window collisions and protect bird populations.