Birds crashing into the glass surfaces of windows is a serious problem for the conservation of bird biodiversity. Millions of birds are killed annually after hitting the windows of buildings. It is the second most common cause of human-caused bird mortality, after habitat loss.
Birds often fail to recognize glass as an obstacle. Reflections of the sky or vegetation in the glass create the illusion of open space, leading to collisions. These collisions have a significant impact on the populations of many bird species, including endangered species. The problem increases during migration periods when birds move long distances and encounter urban environments more frequently. With increasing urbanisation and the use of glass in modern architecture, the problem is becoming more acute. Addressing this problem requires a comprehensive approach that includes architectural modifications, public education and the implementation of effective conservation measures on existing buildings.
Protecting birds from impact with glass surfaces is a key issue that has multiple reasons and impacts. First and foremost, it is about biodiversity conservation, as birds play an indispensable role in ecosystems and many species are endangered. Each individual is important for the survival of the population, and it is therefore an ethical obligation for humans to prevent the unnecessary suffering and death of birds.
Birds provide invaluable ecological services – they help pollinate plants, regulate insect and rodent populations, and contribute to seed dispersal. They also have significant aesthetic value, enriching our environment with their song and presence. Birdwatching has become a popular leisure activity for many people.
From an economic point of view, protecting birds from hitting the glass provides benefits in terms of preventing damage to glass surfaces and reducing the cost of cleaning and repairing windows. The legal aspect cannot be overlooked either – compliance with bird protection laws and avoiding possible penalties for lack of protection are important aspects.
This issue also provides an educational opportunity, allowing conservation awareness to be raised and the public to be involved in bird conservation. Last but not least, protecting birds from hitting glass promotes sustainable architecture through “bird-friendly” building design and the integration of bird conservation into modern building practices.
Protecting birds from glass impacts is thus a complex topic with significant environmental, social and economic impacts. The implementation of effective protection measures is essential for the harmonious coexistence of people and birds in the urban environment, thus ensuring a sustainable future for both parties.
Why do birds crash into windows?
Bird strikes on windows are a serious problem that has several causes related to the properties of glass. One of the main reasons is the reflection of the surroundings in the glass, which creates the illusion of an open space. Birds see the reflection of the sky, trees or shrubs, leading them to believe that they can fly freely. This problem is exacerbated depending on the time of day and season, when the angle of incidence of the sun’s rays and the intensity of the reflections change.
Another problem is that birds do not see clear glass as an obstacle because it is transparent to them. Birds think they can fly freely over glass surfaces, which leads to collisions. Clear glass is a virtually invisible obstacle to them. In modern architecture, which often uses large expanses of glass, this risk is even greater. Birds can see through opposing windows in buildings and perceive them as open space, leading to optical illusions and subsequent collisions.
The most effective methods of protection.
UV stickers are one of the most effective and widely used solutions for protecting birds from collisions with glass surfaces. They work on the principle of harnessing the ability of birds to see the ultraviolet (UV) spectrum of light, which is invisible to the human eye.
These stickers and films contain special pigments that reflect UV rays. Birds see these UV patterns as bright markings, while they remain almost invisible to humans. There are different types of UV stickers and films, including spot stickers, stripe stickers and full-face films.
When applied, the stickers are usually placed on the outside of the window. The advantages of this solution are its high effectiveness in preventing bird strikes, minimal impact on the aesthetics and transparency of the windows to people, as well as its long-term durability and resistance to weathering.
Studies show that properly applied UV stickers and films can reduce bird strikes by up to 90%. Maintenance is minimal – routine window cleaning is sufficient. Durability is several years depending on product quality and conditions.
In addition to UV stickers and films, there are other methods of protecting birds from hitting windows. These include patterns and drawings on glass, curtains and blinds, as well as physical barriers such as nets in front of windows and external roller blinds. Landscaping around windows is also important, for example by placing bird feeders and waterers appropriately or by planting plants.
One other option is the use of birdpens. Birdpen has been developed specifically for small window areas against bird strikes and to protect birds. By applying it in strips, you can protect birds quickly and easily. The simplest method is to apply a vertical stripe pattern with a distance between the lines of approximately 8 to 10 cm.
All of these solutions are effective and aesthetically pleasing ways of protecting birds from impact with glass surfaces, suitable for both domestic and commercial buildings.
Protecting birds from impacting windows is an important part of modern architecture and a responsible approach to the environment. If you are planning a new build or refurbishment, it is crucial to think about bird protection in the early stages of the project, before the windows are commissioned for manufacture.
At Makrowin, we recognise the importance of this issue and are ready to help. We offer a free consultation, during which we will work together to find the most suitable solution for protecting birds from hitting the windows in your project. Our experts will advise you on the most effective methods that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
Feel free to contact us and take advantage of our expert bird protection assistance. Together, we can contribute to the preservation of biodiversity and create a harmonious environment in which people and birds can safely coexist.