More than 1 billion birds die every year in collisions with windows.

Several years ago, I heard about FLAP (Fatal Light Awareness Program), an organization that was working to help stop birds from hitting windows in office buildings.  I was unaware of how many birds die after hitting windows in our cities, especially during the fall migration.  I wasn’t alone, nobody had very good data or any data at all. Now we know and it is alarming!

Why birds hit windows

In the daytime, windows reflect their surroundings and birds fly straight for them as if the window presented a clear path. At night, lights left on can attract migratory birds. This is especially so in foggy conditions.  Some species of birds will also launch a territorial attack on their own reflections.

How to prevent bird window strikes

Research shows that in order for birds to see windows as an obstacle, widows must be marked in a 2” by 2” grid. Here are some suggested ways to make your windows safer for birds:

• Decals or Tempera paint or soap. Create a grid or a more artistic approach. Note that one or two hawk silhouettes do little to deter birds, the spacing needs to be more dense.
• ABC BirdTape.  Tape that applies the appropriate grid for you. .
• Acopian Bird Savers.  These ‘zen’ curtains seem like something I could convince my design-conscious partner to put on our windows.
• Screens or Netting
• One-way transparent film.