Large windows and glazed doors are the stuff of dreams for some homeowners, especially if you’ve got a nice view.
However, the problem for some birds is that they keep flying into them.
How to stop birds flying into windows
Sadly, a bird colliding with a window can cause severe damage. Luckily, there are a few things to prevent birds from flying into your windows.
- Consider bird bath and feeder placement.
- Anti-collision stickers
- White paint or tape
- Removable window film
- Netting
Why do birds fly into windows?
Understanding the reasons behind this behaviour is crucial to keep birds from flying into windows. In most cases, it’s thought that birds don’t see the glass and attempt to fly through it. In other cases, the birds might see the reflection of the landscape in the window and not realise it’s a window.
Another reason birds attack windows is they mistake their reflection for an intruder. This bird behaviour is very common during breeding and nesting seasons.
Ways to prevent birds from flying into your window
1. Strategise bird baths placement
While many of us go out of our way to attract birds to our garden with bird feeders and baths, ensure you get the placement right—place bird feeders and baths at least 10 metres from any windows. Alternatively, place your bird bath or feeder close to the window if you don’t have space. They will unlikely build enough momentum to hurt themselves if they fly into your window.
2. Use window decals to break up the reflections
Anti-collision stickers, designed to break up reflective surfaces on windows, can effectively reduce bird collisions. But remember, one single decal alone won’t prevent a window strike; they should cover the entire window to be effective.
Additionally, their success may vary, and it’s important to use a pattern that birds can perceive. Some stickers feature ultraviolet patterns visible to birds, while others have opaque designs that disrupt reflections. Combining these stickers with other methods, such as placing feeders away from windows or using external shading, can enhance their effectiveness in preventing bird collisions.
3. White tape or paint
A simple yet effective solution involves applying vertical and horizontal white tape on the window’s exterior. This visual cue helps birds recognise the presence of a barrier, reducing the likelihood of collisions.
4. Removable window film
Apply an opaque window film so you can still see outside, but the native birds can recognise the windows as a solid surface and hopefully avoid it.
5. Netting
Place a small mesh net at least 8 cm from the window. This way, birds can bounce off before hitting the glass.
How to help an injured bird
In many instances, the bird is stunned after flying into the window. Place them in a dark, quiet place to recover. If, after 20 minutes, they haven’t flown away or you notice a serious injury, you will need to take them to the vet.
According to the WIRES website, “If you have found a sick or injured bird, it will need to see a vet before coming into care.
“If you let WIRES know which vet you have taken the bird to, we will follow up with the vet directly to bring them into care after they have been vet assessed and received any necessary treatment.”
In saying that, you can always call WIRES for advice 1300 094 737.
You might also like:
How to attract birds to your garden
Is it really okay to feed wild birds?
Foods you should never feed your pet bird
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