Buzz
During their breeding season, some territorial birds may attack windows when they mistake their reflection for another bird invading their territory. They might aggressively peck or fly at the window. Here are some ways to prevent or stop birds from attacking your windows.
Steps to Follow
Camouflaging Windows
Use a plastic drop cloth to cover your window effectively and deter birds. Hanging a medium-weight plastic drop cloth or sheet will eliminate the reflection from the exterior side of your window without obstructing natural light. Secure the drop cloth by nailing it to the top of the window frame or using double-sided tape.
Pro Tip: The gentle movement of the drop cloth in the breeze can also deter birds from investigating your window since they tend to be wary of sudden or unpredictable movements.
Apply window film to minimize reflections. Opt for stained glass, mosaic, or patterned window film to reduce reflections while adding a decorative touch to your space. Purchase adhesive window film online or at a craft store, then attach it to the interior side of your window. Smooth out any wrinkles with a credit card and trim excess film with a razor blade.
Attach bright paper or newspaper to your window to eliminate reflections. Tape sheets of vibrant paper or newspaper to the inside of your window to completely eliminate the chance of birds seeing their reflections. This distraction will obscure the birds' vision and deter them from attacking, but it will reduce the amount of natural light entering your room.
Install window screens on the outside of your windows. Window screens not only keep insects and debris out but also prevent birds from seeing their reflections and pecking at the glass. Slide screens into existing slots or use pre-framed screens that expand and fit snugly inside the window frame.
Place potted plants on your window sill to block access. If your windows have wide sills, adorn them with flowers or plants to create a barrier that prevents birds from landing. This also offers birds an alternative focal point, reducing the likelihood of them seeing their reflections.
Hang rope or string to deter landings. Use rope, twine, or string about 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) wide. Place it between the window frame and the glass, or tape it to the sill. The movement in the wind will discourage birds from landing, creating a barrier over the window.
Pro Tip: If birds persist, inflate balloons and attach them to the end of the string. The moving balloons will further deter birds from landing on your window sill.
Hang plastic bags on side mirrors to keep birds away. Cover your vehicle's side mirrors with plastic grocery bags and secure them with rubber bands. This prevents birds from perching on the mirrors and seeing their reflection.
Use a car cover to protect your vehicle from bird damage. Cover your vehicle with a suitable car cover whenever it's parked. This prevents birds from landing on your vehicle and reduces the chances of them seeing their reflection.
Scaring Birds Away
Use a fake owl as a scarecrow. Get a decoy owl and place it outside your window. Move it every few days to keep birds guessing.
Confuse birds with aluminum foil. Stick aluminum foil inside your window and on the sill. The reflections will deter birds from approaching.
Pro Tip: The noise and texture of aluminum foil will startle birds if they land on the sill.
Hang a windsock or flag near your window. The movement will make birds cautious. Install it securely on the exterior frame.
Install shutters to close your windows during the day. Measure your window, buy shutters, and install them with brackets. Shutters also help keep heat out.
Use bird feeders and wind chimes strategically. Place bird feeders away from windows with obstacles in between. Hang wind chimes near your home to deter birds, especially effective for porch windows.
Helpful Tips
- Most birds will stop attacking windows after their breeding season ends.
- Crows, known for pecking windows, might require drastic measures like covering the window with paper or seeking professional assistance.
Important Warnings
- Decals and stickers are ineffective unless covering most of the window.
- Be mindful of legal protections for birds; avoid harming them even if they attack your window.
