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Tips for Saving Birds from Injury by Residential Windows

There are many quick and affordable ways to protect birds from your windows, as well as solutions that require time to acquire materials. These must be applied to the outside of the glass to be effective, unless birds are trying to reach something that is actually on the other side. Interior curtains or blinds can actually make the problem worse by increasing reflectivity.

1. Gel Gloss or Window Wax is a product that was once marketed for cleaning glass (then known as Glass Wax). Years ago, it was a popular tradition to use stencils and Glass Wax to decorate windows at holidays. You can apply it to windows by stenciling it, or use it to create a freehand pattern. When you remove it, you'll also have clean windows.
   www.vermontcountrystore.com (for Window Wax)
   www.amazon.com or Home Depot (for Gel Gloss)
    
2. Use tape to create patterns on window glass that are no greater apart that 4" for vertical, 2" for horizontal (note: tape can be hard to remove).
    
3. Stretch lightweight netting or other material over the window. The netting must be several inches in front of the window and taut enough so that birds bounce without hitting the glass.
    
4. Screens on the outside of your windows are very effective. The Bird Screen Company sells screens with suction cup mounting hardware that can be easily installed and removed.
   www.birdscreen.com
    
5. Decals — there are many kinds of decals, some designed to deter birds, others to decorate windows. Contrast with the window background is important and decals should be spaced leaving maximum 2 inch horizontal gaps, 4 inch vertical gaps.
   www.windowalert.com
   www.collidescape.com
   www.wpines.com
    
6. Arti Stick Window Color paints come in 18 colors and are marketed for children. Drawings on sheets of plastic become transparent as they dry and can be peeled off and applied to windows.
   www.budgetartkids.com
   www.dickblick.com
   www.artsuppliesforartists.com
    
   
7. Window films come in many colors and styles, and can also be cut into stripes or other shapes-be sure not to select shiny, reflective film. These films are designed to look like frosted or etched glass.
   www.windowdressingetc.com
   www.fetchgraphics.com

— Tips compiled by Grace Storch, published in the Winter 2009 and Summer 2011 Guardian Messenger