Window Collisions

Some of us have a hard time understanding why birds collide into windows, but it's not their fault, and it's not because they are "stupid," but because birds perceive things differently than humans. Sometimes they see their reflections and think it is a threatening intruder who they have to attack. Other times, because of their sensitivity to polarized light, they may not see the glass. Whatever the case, window collisions are a real problem for birds. To prevent collisions you can stick things on your windows, or buy clear decals.

But window collisions are not always fatal.

A lot of times birds are just stunned and need time to gather their wits before they fly off. If you find a bird that is stunned like this DO NOT handle the bird unless it is necessary. When is it necessary? 

• If it is cold outside, a bird can freeze to death while it is stunned. Carefully pick the bird up, put it in a box and keep it quiet and at inside room temperature. Within 30 minutes to an hour the bird has usually 100% recovered and will fly off when you open the box (so be careful if you peek inside to see whether it is OK!)​

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• If there are predators about, such as raptors, or dogs & cats. Take all pets inside, and/or place the bird somewhere outside where it will be safe and protected until it is recovered and can fly off on its own.
  

• If the bird has its beak open and/or is breathing out of its mouth, this is a sign that the bird is in shock and should be put in a quiet, dark place ASAP and left alone in a quiet place until it calms down.
  

Here are a few websites that sell window decals:

• American Bird Conservancy: Stop Birds   Hitting Windows
• Flap Canada

Here are a few websites that I found with more information:

• NPR: Windows A Clear Danger to Birds
• 9 Ways to Help Birds Avoid Window Collisions
• Lab of Ornithology: Glass Action: Advances in the Science of Making Windows Safer for Birds

If you are concerned that the bird hit really hard, and it it has been disorientated for more than 30 minutes after hitting a window, call a rehabiliator. Often a severe concussion can result in brain swelling that is fatal a day or  more after the initial accident. This can be prevented by treatment with anti-inflammatory medications by a vet or rehabilitator.

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Wild Things Sanctuary
P.O. Box 713, Ithaca, NY 14851
(607) 200 4100 
wildthingssanctuary@gmail.com