How to Get Birds to Stop Flying Into Your Windows

Millions of birds die each year as a result of flying into windows.

Windows pose a serious hazard to curious birds. According to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, approximately 100 million birds are killed every year due to collisions with windows. Knowing how to stop birds from flying into your windows will help you protect your windows and the birds.

Things You'll Need

• Bird feeder
• Plastic owl/wind chimes
• Window screens/netting
• Cardboard/streamers/string

Instructions

1. Move your bird feeder away from your window or closer to your window. The Oregon State University Extension Service recommends that bird feeders be placed either 20 feet or more away from the windows, or three feet or closer to the windows to help prevent injuries.

2. Place bird deterrents like a plastic owl or wind chimes near your windows. Birds are easily frightened by the appearance of owls and the subtle noise and movement brought about by wind chimes. You can buy bird deterrents at gardening stores.

3. Place window screens or netting over your window. This can deter birds from flying into the window and will also cushion the window and prevent injury if a bird does fly into it. You can buy window screens and netting at hardware stores.

4. Alter the appearance of your windows by by attaching strips of paper or cardboard to the window or by hanging ribbons, streamers, colored string or festive garlands in front of the window.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have houseplants near your windows, immediately move them away from the windows as they attract curious birds.

• Change the appearance of your windows and move the bird deterrents on a regular basis. Birds become accustomed to changes, so moving the bird deterrents or changing the appearance of the windows frequently will help keep them away for good.

References

• Cornell Lab of Ornithology: Bird Notes
• Oregon State University Extension Service: Garden Hints