Window Strikes

Birds and windows are mortal enemies. Every year up to one billion birds are killed by collisions with glass in the United States. In other words, birds die as a result of their flying into windows.

Birds see trees and sky reflected in glass and it appears to be habitat. They fly into windows at high speeds and are killed.

Solutions

Three  proven solution from our member are outlined below - plus what you can do if you find a "dazed" bird.  


Three Proven Solutions to Reduce Bird Deaths.

parachute cord

A very simple and effective DIY way to reduce bird strikes is with parachute cord - Carolyn Minson explains in the video below.

Download DIY Instructions -
How to make Zen Curtains with Parachute Cords

Vertical lines formed by parachute cord.

Vertical lines formed by parachute cord.

Door Cords.jpg
window netting

Netting

One of the easiest ways to prevent birds from hitting windows is to use deer netting cut to size and held in place with suction cups. 

You can easily do it yourself, or take a look at the kit available in our store
 

Feather Friendly Dots

Another solution is a product made by Feather Friendly which consists of dots on transparent tape that is applied to the window.

Feather Friendly® Solution for ‘Do it yourself’ Residential Applications - ConvenienceGroup

Acopian Bird Savers are highly effective at reducing or eliminating bird deaths due to window strikes.

Acopian BirdSavers — Prevents birds from flying into windows.

While this product is fairly expensive, it is easy to make yourself. Just use 1/8” diameter nylon parachute cord. Cut to needed length and space 4 inches apart on a narrow trim board. Then hang above the window.

Feather Friendly - Inside looking out.

Feather Friendly - Inside looking out.

Feather Friendly - Outside looking in.

Feather Friendly - Outside looking in.

Additional information is available at numerous websites by searching for
"Reducing deaths of birds due to window strikes" 


Treating Dazed Birds

Fortunately, some birds that hit windows are able to fly away, apparently unharmed. But, if the bird does end up on the ground, either dazed or unconscious, pick up the bird before a predator gets it.

There are different ways of protecting the injured bird. Even if you do nothing else, be sure that the bird is positioned so that it is not lying on its back because birds cannot turn themselves over from that position. One of the easiest ways to protect the bird is to put a wire cage over it, one that has openings large enough that it can fly away when it is ready, but small enough to keep predators away. On a hot sunny day, the bird and cage should be moved to a shady location.

Another way to protect the injured bird is to put it in a dark container or box with ventilation holes and a secure lid. If the weather is cold, you could move the container to a warmer location. When the bird revives, you will hear movement. At that time, carry the box to a sheltered location such as an outdoor chair or bush. Allow the bird to depart on its own.

Do not attempt to feed or give water to the bird. If the stunned bird does not revive enough to fly away, it is not likely to survive.

A list of licensed bird rehabilitators in Arkansas can be found at: