How to Keep Birds from Flying Into Windows: 13 Humane Ways

Windows can be a death trap for birds. Every year, millions of birds collide with windows and die. This is a tragic loss, not only because of the deaths themselves but also because of the impact that these collisions have on bird populations and the ecosystem.

If you’re looking for ways to stop birds from crashing into your windows, you have come to the right place! Today, we’ll discuss some humane ways to keep birds from flying into your windows.

The 13 Humane Ways to Keep Birds Flying into Windows

1. Use Bird Tape on Windows

Bird tape is a type of tape that is designed to deter birds from flying into windows. The tape has a reflective surface that makes it seem like the window is a solid object that they can crash into. That way, they can avoid the windows completely. You can find bird tape at most hardware and retail stores countrywide.

2. Add Tape Strips and Collision Stickers to Your Windows

Tape strips and collision stickers work in a similar way to bird tape. They create the illusion of a solid object. However, they are less visible than bird tape and can be more aesthetically pleasing. Don’t forget to only get water and wind-resistant strips to withstand the harsh weather.

3. Use Awnings and Sun Shade Screens

You can place awnings and sun shade screens outside of the window. Not only do they reduce the windows’ transparency, but they also provide a physical barrier between the bird and the window.  Not to mention, it will also keep your home cooler in the summer months!

4. Try Using Mosquito Screens

Mosquito screens are designed to keep bugs out, but they can also be effective in deterring birds. The mesh is small enough that birds won’t be able to fly through it and into your window. What’s more, they only take about 15 minutes to install. Although they compromise your window’s visibility, they’re a worthy sacrifice for our winged friends.

5. Install Motion Sensor Lights

Birds are attracted to light, so they may mistake your windows for an exit. To avoid this, you can install motion sensor lights around your home. These will turn on whenever something moves, startling the bird and deterring it from flying into your window. These sensor lights also help keep raccoons at bay and make your home more secure at night.

6. Buy Zen Curtains

Zen curtains are a type of curtain that has a pattern of horizontal and vertical lines. These lines trick the bird’s eyes into thinking that the window is solid. As a result, they will fly around it instead of crashing into it. You can find these curtains at most home decor stores. What’s more zen curtains look lovely and could improve your home’s decor

7. Change Your Bird Bath and Feeder Location

Birds are attracted to bird baths and feeders, and after eating their fill and taking a dip, they may mistake your windows for an exit. Changing the location of your bird bath and feeder and positioning them away from your windows reduces the risk of collision. As a rule of thumb, position the bird feeder and bath no less than 30 meters from the windows to eliminate the risk of collision.

8. Avoid Using Window Decals

Although decals look great on windows, they can actually be dangerous for birds. Window decals are usually made of PVC. This type of plastic contains chemicals that can be harmful to birds. Again, if the decal is not placed correctly on the window, it can also cause the window to shatter when the bird collides with it. This means all the tiny shards of glass can injure the birds and, in some cases, kill them.

9. Use a Bird Net

If you want to keep birds away from your windows and don’t mind sacrificing the view, then installing a bird net is a great option. Bird nets are made of durable nylon mesh that will prevent birds from crashing into your windows. The only downside is that they can be pricey and might take some time to install.

10. Apply Tempera Paint on Your Windows

Coating your windows with tempera paint is another great way to keep birds from bumping or crashing into your windows.  All you need is some non-toxic tempera paint and a brush. Once the paint dries, it will create an opaque barrier that will make it difficult for birds to see through. The birds will take a different route, thinking it’s a solid object. If you can’t find tempera paint, you can smear soapy foam on the window and let it dry out.

11. Try a One-Way Transparent Film

If you want to keep birds away from your windows but don’t want to sacrifice the view, then applying a one-way transparent film is a great option. This type of film allows you to see out but makes it impossible for birds to see in. As a result, they’ll avoid flying into your window and also make your home a little cooler.

12. Hang Wind Chimes Near Your Window

Hanging wind chimes near your window is an excellent way to deter birds from crashing into your windows. Instead of doing so, the noise of the chimes will startle the bird and deter it from flying into the window. Thankfully, the chimes make a soothing sound, so you don’t have to worry about them distracting you.

13. Replace Glass with Plexiglas

If despite all your efforts, nothing works, then you may want to replace the glass with Plexiglas. Plexiglas is a type of clear plastic that’s much more durable than glass and won’t shatter if a bird collides with it. It’s also more affordable than you might think, and you can easily install it yourself.

What to Do If a Bird Crashes Into Your Window

In the event that a bird crashes into your window, the first thing to do is to remain calm and check on the avian. If it tries to fly away, don’t make any movements and let it go. If the bird is injured, gently pick it up, wrap it in a towel and take it to a nearby vet or animal shelter.

Final Thoughts

Birds crashing into windows is a common problem. The good thing is that there’s something we can do to protect our feathered friends. By following the tips above, you can keep birds away from your windows and prevent them from being injured or killed.

Featured Image Credit: J K OFFICIAL, Shutterstock