Make Existing Glass Safe For Birds
Keys for Success
Always add patterns on the outside surface of glass, this breaks up the dangerous reflection.
Place markers 2 inches apart if using window film or paint and 4 inches if using hanging paracord.
- Pattern recommendations have been determined with extensive testing of what spacing birds perceive as wide enough for them to fly through.
- The spacing recommendation for paracord curtains is different because the reflection and motion of the physical chords placed off of the surface of the glass, can create the visual illusion of a narrower element spacing
- If you use just one or a few stickers, or if markers are spaced too far apart, birds will try to fly through the gaps the way they fly through gaps in a tree canopy, and they will hit the glass.
Follow These Simple Steps to Make Your Glass Safe for Birds
It is best if all reflective and transparent materials up to the height of the mature tree canopy near a building are retrofitted. If this is not possible, move down the following bullet point list from highest risk to lowest risk to determine which glass to treat first.
1. Decide Which Glass to Retrofit First
- Glass that has caused known collisions.
- Glass near areas that attract birds (e.g., bird feeders, water features, gardens, trees and shrubs).
- Glass that creates a “passage effect” to trees or other habitat (transparent or reflective).
- Glass at the end of rock walls, outcrops, or other “funnel” shaped landscape features.
- Glass in a courtyard.
2. Choose your Deterrent
When considering which collision deterrent method is best for you, there are some key considerations to be mindful of when comparing solutions: price, aesthetics (both material and pattern), durability, warranty, installation skill level, and availability. The following sections have been generally organized by installation level and price from low to high.
Here we provide a few solutions known to be effective in reducing collisions. If choosing another product, please verify that the product you choose has been tested as effective in reducing collisions using this rated product list from American Bird Conservancy.
DIY Deterrents
(All the following projects are temporary, easy to apply, and easy to remove.)
Paracord Curtain
Use 1/8″ paracord and an attachment material.
Freehand Tempera Paint
Use tempera paint, a paintbrush, and a creative idea!
Stencil & Paint Pens
Use a 2×2″ stencil of your own creation and paint pens.
Dot Foam Roller
Cut your own foam roller and choose your paint!
Glass Retrofit Products
Exterior Screens
There are many types of insect screens that can be installed to windows and doors. These can range in material and price. Local stores offer standard screens and custom screens can be ordered.
Acopian BirdSavers
Pre-spaced paracord attachment that hangs down over glass. Options range from DIY to commercial installations. Some sizes may require professional installation.
Feather Friendly Film
Rolls of patterned vinyl in various sizes, colors, and patterns. Options range from small-scale to large-scale installations. Some sizes may require professional installation.
ABC Bird Tape
Rolls of vinyl tape that can be used for squares, lines, or unique patterns. This product is mostly useful for small-scale or residential projects and can be installed yourself.
SOLYX Films
SOLYX offers a variety of patterned films that can be used for small or large-scale projects, including a film that is bird-friendly while also reducing sun reflection and heat impact.
CollidEscape Film
CollidEscape has a variety of patterned film options as well as full coverage film. Options range from small-scale to commercial installations. Some sizes may require professional installation.
Beyond Glass Treatments
Bird Safe Patterned Glass
Patterns in glass can be made by acid-etching, ceramic fritting, lamination, and even digital printing. Many companies offer a variety of pre-set or custom bird-friendly patterns.
Non-Float Glass Deterrents
Commercially available bird safe glass is produced with structural changes that alter “image formation” on or through a material while preserving or enhancing an architect’s aesthetic intent.
Exterior Decorative Facade Elements
Glass façades (building exteriors) can be covered and personalized using shading systems, louvers, netting, ceramic rods, aluminum chains, metal screens and more.
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3. Install Your Deterrent
Always treat the external side of glass. If the deterrent is applied on the inside, it may be obscured by reflections on the outside.
Different collision deterrents require different processes of installation. Make sure you investigate best practices for installing your chosen product to ensure the best outcome. If the glass you want to treat is difficult to reach, consider hiring a professional or enlisting friends to help you!
If you can’t permanently alter your windows due to renter restrictions, the DIY options of tempera paint, paint markers, and paracord curtains are not only effective and inexpensive, they are also easily removable.
In addition to making your windows visible to birds, you can also turn lights out at your residence during both spring migration (March-June) and fall migration (August-November).
You Did It! What’s Next?
Share Your Success & Encourage Others!
Share photos of your successful installation with friends and neighbors. When posting on social media platforms, include the hashtag #StopBirdCollisions and click the hashtag to see other projects like yours!
Go to our Media Room for shareable resources to help you inform your friends and family about how to prevent bird collisions.
