Across North America, an estimated 100 million to one billion birds die each year after colliding with human-built structures. The reflective and transparent characteristics of glass make windows invisible killers. Birds see a tree reflected in a window or a plant behind it, not the glass.

Homeowners often affix black decals shaped like hawk silhouettes to their picture windows in an attempt to protect birds. Unfortunately, this rarely does the trick. The silhouette only covers a small portion of the window and unless the bird is headed for that particular spot, the decal will likely be ineffectual.

Here are a few methods proven to deter birds from windows.

• Because hawk silhouettes work much better when they move, hang them outside windows by a chain or rope from an overhanging.
• Make sure bird feeders and other attracting objects (like birdbaths and plants) are either one foot away or more than 10 feet away from any window. If attractions are very close to windows, birds often cannot build up enough momentum to injure themselves should they hit windows. Alternatively, by placing attractions 10 feet away or more, birds are less likely to get close enough for a collision.
• Hang ribbons or other material strips no more than two inches apart on the outside of windows along each window's entire length.
• Cover small and medium-sized windows with netting, like that available from Bird Barrier (www.birdbarrier.com; 1-800-503-5444). Make sure to leave space between the glass and the netting, in addition to an open area at the bottom of the window so the bird can escape. It will act like a trampoline if a bird should hit it.
• Turn your window into a work of art by using a window film that gives the appearance of acid etching or sandblasting or frost the exterior surface of the window.
• Install exterior blinds or sun shields.
• Close drapes and blinds whenever possible. This will help if you have plants inside the house close to the window or when windows at the front and back of your home face each other, giving the impression of a clear passage. However, this will not control the exterior reflective characteristics of windows.

For information on the products mentioned here, contact FLAP (Fatal Light Awareness Program) 416-366-FLAP or visit www.flap.org.

Reprinted by permission of the Humane Society of the United States-Wildlife Sanctuary Program
Wild Neighbors News, Volume 4, Number 1, Winter 2002