Prevent Birds from Hitting Your Windows

Window decals are adhesive stickers or decals applied to windows to make them more visible to birds. These decals often feature patterns or designs that break up reflections and alert birds to the presence of glass, reducing the likelihood of collisions.

It’s best to place window decals two inches by two inches apart. You can purchase Window Alert decals on our website, which are removable, adhesive stickers that include a UV coating and come in different shapes and sizes.

Window decals should be visible from 10 ft away to ensure birds will have enough time to change their route and avoid colliding with your window. Dark colored decals or tape can be difficult for birds to see, so bright and light colors are best. 

Stripes are another great method, and we often use graph tape at 2″ intervals to create stripes that prevent strikes during migration.

There are several effective external film and glass covering options. Some options are more expensive but are highly effective. They typically have a guaranteed lifetime of 5 to 7 years, although they often last longer. You can shop online for film options or contact Think Wild for guidance and installation services.

Use temporary markers to directly apply visible markings for birds to see following the 2×2 spacing rule. Draw light lines or colored patterns directly on the outside of your windows to have the greatest success at avoiding bird-window collisions. When needed, temporary paint is easily removed using vinegar and water.

Many consider the Acopian bird or Zen bird curtain to be an elegant and simple method of reducing bird collisions with glass. This method uses 1/8-inch paracord sections spaced 3.5 to 4.25 inches apart, hanging the height of the window and attached to a horizontal section of paracord running along the top frame of the window. The paracord creates a visual barrier for birds. Acopian curtains can be purchased pre-made, or constructed of readily available and inexpensive materials. Contact us for help.

External insect screens or netting on windows is an effective and relatively inexpensive treatment to reduce the visual reflection in the glass, and might also help prevent some injuries by providing a cushion between the bird and the window. This treatment can be installed on individual panes or attached to a façade. To be effective, the netting must be placed far enough in front of the window that a bird hitting it will not collide with the glass behind the net after hitting it. The netting should have openings no larger than ½ inch and it must be completely taut so that birds do not get trapped in it.

Several companies sell screens or barriers that can be attached with suction cups or eye hooks. These treatments can be used on new construction, renovations, and retro-fits.