Buzz
Many small bird species, such as red-vented bulbul and house sparrows, are territorial and often fly straight into windows, attempting to chase away their reflection, which they mistake for a rival. This issue can happen year-round but is particularly troublesome during the breeding season. You can prevent birds from flying into your home's or office windows by taking certain safety measures. Additionally, there are products tested by ornithologists and approved for sale that are highly effective in preventing birds from hitting windows.
Steps
Adjust the Window
Apply strips of tape to the outside of the window. You need to use weather-resistant white tape. Place the strips vertically on the window, spaced about 10 cm apart. This will signal to the birds that it is a window, and they will avoid flying into it.
- You can also use black tape, but the strips should be spaced about 2.5 cm apart.
- Pet stores sell specialized tape designed to prevent birds from crashing into windows.
Apply bird-shaped decals to the outside of your window. These bird decals are a quick and easy solution to prevent birds from crashing into your windows. Position the decals closely together, leaving a gap no wider than the length of your hand. It's essential to cover most of the window with decals, as just one or two won't be enough to keep the birds away.
You can find bird-shaped decals at pet stores or bird food shops. There are many different bird designs to choose from, such as hawks or robins. Look for decals in ultraviolet colors, as these colors are invisible to humans but stand out to birds.
Apply a layer of soap or paint to the outside of your window. Another method to prevent birds from flying into your window is to coat the exterior with a soap film that birds can see. Note that this method requires frequent reapplication of soap to maintain the layer.
- Alternatively, you can use window paint or tempera to create a colorful and eye-catching design on the glass. Be sure to cover most of the glass surface to ensure no transparent spaces where birds could fly through.
Use window film. Transparent window films are available, allowing visibility from the inside while appearing opaque from the outside. Apply the film to cover the entire exterior of your window. Most window films allow light to pass through but appear blurred to birds.
- Some window films even feature patterns like stripes or shapes, which can further prevent birds from flying into the glass. These films not only enhance the aesthetics of your window but also provide safety for the birds.
Install a window mesh screen. Various types of mesh screens are available to prevent birds from crashing into windows. Look for a dark-colored bird-repellent mesh that can be attached to the outside of your window, ensuring a snug fit.
- You can also purchase a mesh screen that hangs outside your window about 5 cm away. Opt for lightweight, durable polypropylene mesh for best results.
Install exterior shutters or blinds. Consider adding shutters to your windows if they don't already have them. This way, you can close them when you're out during the day to prevent birds from flying into the glass. Shutters are also a great way to conserve energy and keep your home warm without using the heater.
- You can also install sun blinds or awnings to block reflections and create shade, making it easier for birds to see the glass and avoid flying into it.
Switch to ultraviolet glass with patterns. A long-term solution to this issue is to replace your regular windows with ultraviolet patterned glass. This type of glass has squares that are invisible to humans but visible to birds from the outside. While this may be the most expensive option, it offers a durable solution.
- You can purchase this type of glass online or from specialty furniture stores.
- If you plan to install new windows inside, consider angling them slightly. Ask the contractor to tilt the window downward so that the glass reflects the ground instead of showing the sky and trees. This will help birds avoid crashing into the glass while maintaining an unobstructed view.
Adjust your indoor setup
Move indoor plants away from the window. If you have several plants near the window, consider moving them a few meters away. Birds may see the plants through the window and mistake them for a safe perch. They will then fly into the glass, thinking they can land on the branches.
Close curtains and blinds whenever possible. It's a good idea to keep the curtains closed during the day, as this will help prevent birds from flying into the glass. Curtains signal to birds that there is a window present.
- If you use vertical blinds, try partially or fully closing them during the day.
Turn off the lights in the house when they are not needed. Make sure to turn off all lights in rooms that are not in use to prevent the house from emitting light. This way, the birds won't be attracted by the light inside and fly into the windows.
Adjust the bird feeders and other items for the birds.
Place bird feeders and birdbaths no more than 90 cm from the window. It may sound strange, but it is actually safer for the birds if you position the feeders and birdbaths close to the window. If they are placed too far from the window, the birds will gain speed if they attempt to fly into it, making it even more dangerous.
- To minimize the impact that could potentially harm the birds, you should consider feeders that attach directly to the glass.
- Another option is to place the feeders and birdbaths at least 9 meters away from the window to reduce the chance of the birds noticing the window and flying into it.
Hang wind chimes in front of the window. Purchase wind chimes to hang outside above the window. It's a good idea to choose wind chimes with shiny objects that make noise when the wind blows.
- You can also create your own wind chimes by hanging CDs or strips of reflective plastic in front of the window. Another option is to hang aluminum cake pans in front of the window to scare the birds away.
Hang tree branches in front of the window. For a more natural look, you can hang tree branches in front of the window. Use string to secure the branches and hang them in a row in front of the window. This way, you can still enjoy the view outside while preventing the birds from flying into the glass.
Install products that have been recognized by ornithologists.
Use Acopian BirdSavers (bird safety curtains) as a simple, easy-to-install solution. Acopian BirdSavers are paracord curtains that can be quickly and easily installed outside your window to prevent bird collisions. The product consists of a series of evenly spaced hanging cords placed in front of the window. You can order BirdSavers custom-made to fit your window size and follow the included installation instructions.
- Acopian BirdSavers are highly effective at deterring birds and are recommended by the American Bird Conservancy based on extensive testing.
- You can purchase custom-sized BirdSavers here: https://www.birdsavers.com/.
Make your own BirdSavers if you prefer. If you'd like to create your own BirdSavers curtain, it's easy to do with some dark paracord and a few vinyl J-hooks. Measure the width of your window frame and cut the J-hooks to match the window width. Next, punch several holes in the J-hooks to attach vertical cords across the window, spacing them about 10 cm apart. Thread the cord through the holes and tie knots at the top so that the cords hang down to the desired length.
- You can attach the J-hooks to the top of the window frame using screws or sticky tape.
- If you don’t have J-hooks, try using a section of PVC pipe or a wooden rod.
- Alternatively, you can use a length of paracord to create a horizontal bar at the top.
Try using Bird Crash Preventers (bird collision preventers) if you want a less conspicuous option. Bird Crash Preventers are another product approved and endorsed by the American Bird Conservancy. These curtains are made from nylon strips that birds can clearly see, but they are almost invisible to the human eye. You can purchase this product in the correct size for your window and install it with the included rings and screws.
- You can purchase Bird Crash Preventers here: http://stores.santarosanational.com/.
Purchase Feather Friendly decals (bird-friendly window stickers) for easy installation. These decals have been approved by the American Bird Conservancy. They consist of a series of white dots that you can stick to your window in a simple grid pattern. You can request installation or apply these decals yourself.
- These decals are designed to stay firmly in place in all weather conditions without damaging the glass or its coating.
- You can buy Feather Friendly window decals here: https://www.conveniencegroup.com/featherfriendly/feather-friendly/.
Consider using Solyx Bird-Safety Film if you're looking for a product that offers both safety and decorative appeal. Solyx Bird-Safety Film is a type of window film available in a variety of patterns, ranging from simple vertical and horizontal lines to intricate decorative lattice designs, even colorful nature-inspired motifs. You can purchase the film and apply it yourself or request professional installation.
- The Solyx Bird-Safety Film has been tested and approved by the American Bird Conservancy.
- You can order this product in various designs here: https://www.decorativefilm.com/specialty-bird-safety.
Advice
- Objects that reflect light or colorful glass decorations placed in front of windows can help prevent birds from crashing into glass. While they may not entirely eliminate the problem, this method can significantly improve the situation. The larger the decorative item, the more effective it will be.
Warning
- Do not attempt to scare birds away by placing a fake hawk statue near the window. Birds will quickly recognize the hawk as a decoy and lose their fear.
