10 Ways to Prevent Bird Strikes on Windows & Glass Doors

As bird lovers, we all know how heartbreaking it is to see a lifeless bird on the ground, having collided with a window or glass door. Unfortunately, this is a common problem that can have a devastating impact on bird populations worldwide. It's up to us to take action and protect our feathered friends by preventing bird strikes.

This article will explore ten innovative ways to make your windows and glass doors bird-friendly and prevent collisions. By implementing these solutions, you'll save countless birds' lives and help preserve the delicate balance of our ecosystem. Let's band together and do our part to make a positive difference for birds and their habitats and create a safer and more beautiful world for us all to enjoy.

1. Install Bird-Friendly Glass

Bird-friendly glass is designed to help birds recognize that there is a solid surface in front of them. It uses patterns, textures, or coatings visible to birds but not humans. This allows birds to see the glass and avoid collisions. Some types of bird-friendly glass are nearly invisible to humans, making them an excellent option for residential and commercial buildings.

2. Use Window Films

Window films are a cost-effective way to prevent bird strikes on windows and glass doors. They come in various patterns and designs that help break up the glass's reflective surface. This makes the window more visible to birds and reduces the chances of a collision. Window films are easy to install and can be customized to fit any window or glass door.

3. Install External Screens

 External screens, such as mesh or netting, can be installed on the outside of windows and glass doors to create a barrier that prevents birds from flying into the glass. The screens are nearly invisible inside the house, so they don't obstruct your view. They can be custom-made to fit any window or glass door and are an effective solution for preventing bird strikes.

4. Use Stickers or Decals 

Applying stickers or decals to windows and glass doors can also help prevent bird strikes. The stickers create a visible pattern on the glass that helps birds recognize a barrier in front of them. They come in various designs and can be easily applied to any window or glass door. However, it's important to note that stickers and decals must be placed close together to be effective and may need to be replaced periodically.

5. Plant Trees or Install Awnings

Planting trees or installing awnings can also help prevent bird strikes. The trees and awnings provide shade and cover, which can help reduce reflections on the glass. This makes the glass less visible to birds and reduces the chances of a collision.

6. Use Ultraviolet Markers

 Birds can see ultraviolet light, which humans cannot. By applying ultraviolet markers to windows and glass doors, you can create a visible pattern that is only visible to birds. This helps birds recognize the presence of a solid surface and avoid collisions. Ultraviolet markers are an effective and long-lasting solution for preventing bird strikes.

7. Install Interior Shades or Curtains

 By installing shades or curtains on the inside of your windows, you can reduce the amount of reflection and glare on the glass. This makes the glass less visible to birds and reduces the chances of a collision. Shades and curtains can also help regulate the temperature in your home and provide privacy.

8. Create a Bird-Friendly Habitat

Creating a bird-friendly habitat around your home can also help prevent bird strikes. Planting trees, shrubs, and other vegetation around your home can provide cover and habitat for birds. This can help reduce the chances of a collision and make your property more attractive to birds.

9. Place Objects in Front of Windows

Placing objects in front of windows, such as potted plants or furniture, can also help prevent bird strikes. This breaks up the reflective surface of the glass and makes it less visible to birds. Be sure to place the objects close enough to the window to be effective but not so close that they pose a hazard to birds.

10. Install Motion-Activated Alarms

Motion-activated alarms, such as bird alarms or sound deterrents, can be installed near windows and glass doors to scare birds away. These alarms use high-frequency sounds or flashing lights to startle birds and deter them from flying into the glass. They are a humane and effective solution for preventing bird strikes.

Conclusion

Birds are essential to our world, providing vital services such as pollination and pest control. Yet, their populations are declining alarmingly due to various threats, including bird strikes on windows and glass doors. By taking the time to implement the bird-friendly tips outlined in this article, you can help reduce the number of bird deaths caused by collisions with windows and glass doors. Every life saved matters; together, we can make a difference in the fight to protect these beloved creatures. So let's do our part to ensure that birds can thrive, fly, and sing in our world, free from harm and danger.