Invisibility might be a trait most humans think is pretty cool, but that is not the case for birds. In fact, glass windows are worse than invisible for birds. They end up looking like inviting places to fly into because they reflect the sky or surrounding foliage. Unfortunately, birds that hit windows most often end up dying. This goes even for birds that at first seem only temporarily stunned and manage to fly away. In most cases these birds die, often from bruising or internal bleeding particularly on the brain. To stop this from happening and reduce the risk of it occurring in your home, it is wise to contact a professional wildlife animal control provider like Skedaddle.
Why Do Birds Hit Windows?
Among the different types of window collisions, the two main types are those that happen during daytime and at nighttime. Birds will crash into windows in daylight because they either see through the glass to vegetation or potted plants, or they see reflections of vegetation outside. At night, lighted windows are the main cause why nocturnal migrants crash. Occasionally, birds will sometimes attack their own reflection in a window.
How To Prevent Birds From Smashing Into Your Windows
Easy and quick DIY modifications to your home’s windows should prove effective in stopping birds from crashing into them, and some of them include:
- Close blinds and curtains
- Netting
- Screens
- Decals
- Keep house plants away from windows
Keep Blinds and Curtains Closed
By closing blinds and curtains you will reduce the likelihood of birds seeing your window as clear passages.

Starlings are a common bird found in most Canadian neighbourhoods and are at high risk for window crashes
Netting
Place netting on the outside of the glass at least 8 centimetres away. Make it taut enough to ensure birds bounce off before they smash into the glass. Opt for small-mesh netting to avoid having the birds’ heads or bodies entangled. Ensure easy installation and removal by mounting the netting on a frame.
Screens
So long as they cover the entire surface of the window and are placed on the outside of it, installing bug screens over your windows can be a highly effective solution for preventing birds from smashing into the glass.
Decals and Films
Covering the outside surface of the window with tape, decals and custom one-way films can also prevent reflections and make windows appear opaque, preventing bird collisions. Space them closely to ensure effectiveness. Remember to cover most of the glass with them, as placing just one or two window stickers on a large window is not going to prevent collisions.
Moving House Plants
House plants positioned near windows might look like appealing spots for birds to perch themselves. Reduce the chance of birds mistaking house plants for resting spots by moving them away windows.
Wildlife Animal Control Professionals: Turn To Skedaddle
Skedaddle is a company that not only offers humane and effective wildlife animal control services but also shares their vast knowledge and experience as well. If you are having trouble with collision-proofing your home the DIY way, turn to Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control for expert and professional help. Thanks to nearly three decades of helping homeowners be free from pests and wildlife, Skedaddle has both the knowledge and the expertise to help you solve bird issues around your home. Call Skedaddle today and protect both your home and unsuspecting birds.