~wildlife education~
Each year in Canada, around 25 million migratory birds die as a direct result of collisions with building windows.
If you have ever had a bird hit one of your windows, you know the loud thump. Some survive the impact; sadly, some don't.
If a bird hits one of your windows and is stunned, give it time to rest and heal. Gently pick up the bird and place it in a ventilated box and keep it in a quiet area for up to one hour. If you don't have a box, a sturdy paper bag on its side may work.
Open the box outside and watch to see if the bird flies out. If it does not fly out, call a wildlife rehabilitation centre for advice. If you see a wing drooping, you may want to bring the bird into NIWRA.
Bird window hits happen quite often. The window reflection is a continuation of their environment, so they are unaware of the imminent danger they face.
There are various things you can do to try to prevent window strikes: apply images of hawks to the window, hang streamers, or cover the whole window. One method that definitely does not work is closing your curtains. The birdproofing needs to be applied on the outside of the window. Window decals with UV reflecting properties which can be seen by birds but not by people can be effective.
Some birds have love affairs with windows in the springtime. They look at that handsome reflection of themselves and think they have found the perfect mate. You may hear fluttering about for several days but they will tire after a while and move on.
You can help the wildlife in care at NIWRA and our education programs by making a financial contribution on our secure website. Thank you so much for caring about wildlife!
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