Windows and Birds: Turning a Negative into a Positive

Birds are on the move again!

Migration poses a number of threats to birds. As more and more areas became urbanized, collisions with windows have become the second-highest cause of bird deaths annually. Up to 90% of those collisions are with home windows. But here's the thing - we have plenty of tools available to us to not only protect birds from window collisions, but to make them a positive place that can aid them on their journey.  Whether you already have a feeder set up or not - a window feeder is such a fabulous addition to any home and invites a lot of extra joy into everyday life. Window feeders provide a unique opportunity for people to observe birds up close without disturbing them. The birds come right to the window, allowing for detailed views of their behaviour, feeding habits, and interactions. It's the perfect pairing to a (bird friendly) morning coffee, doing the dishes - or simply strolling past! 

You may be thinking - I thought we didn't want birds and windows to interact?? 

Great point - here's why window feeders are part of the solution: 

Birds collide with windows because they do not understand glass and are attracted to reflective surfaces, especially when they mirror trees or open space. With windows everywhere from our homes, condos and apartments, migration can be very difficult as they try to navigate through our cities. Most of migration happens at night, and weather can actually be a large determinant of how vulnerable birds are to window collisions. With high levels of cloud cover or precipitation, birds descend and fly at lower altitudes, making them more likely to collide with windows. 

An important safe guard is the distance windows are from feeders. Because many birds will be stopping on their way through, it is best if feeders are 3 or 25 feet from a window. Essentially, if a feeder is very close to a window (3 feet or less) a bird leaving it cannot gain enough speed to hit a window hard enough to cause damage or injury. This is why our Window Feeders are a great option for observing birds closely, as they are unable to fly away from the feeder and into the window. 

In concert with window feeders, we also recommend the use of Window Decals to help birds perceive windows. Window decals break up the reflections that confuse birds and make windows much safer for them. The less space between decals, the better. We carry WindowAlert  and Feather Friendly decals which are great for homes. They have a UV coating and birds see in UV so this helps them become aware of the window. The decals appear like clear stickers to us. 

Northern Cardinal at Window Feeder. Photo by Leanne LeBlanc. 

As far as window feeders go:

• They are easy to set up and maintain: All you need is an accessible window, so even if you have limited outdoor space for a full set up, they're still a great option.
• You can offer a wide range of food:  we have Bark Butter window feeders, and many other options including window Hummingbird feeders. Think about offering seed, Bark Butter, mealworms, BirdBerry Jelly and more. 

Northern Cardinal eating at a Window Feeder. Photo by Leanne LeBlanc. 

• Great for kids:  This is such a key educational opportunity, learning to identify different bird species, which foods they may prefer, individual behaviours and more 
• Provides peace: This close connection to wildlife infused into everyday life offers moment of quiet observation, and even joy. There is nothing like looking over and realizing there is a Cardinal enjoying some mealworms right at your window. 

Red-breasted Nuthatch at Window Feeder. Photo by Leanne LeBlanc. 

Window feeders offer a convenient and intimate way to appreciate birds close up from inside your home! They invite in so much joy. 

Don't forget to tag us in your photos or share in our Facebook Group to connect with other bird lovers! 

Happy (window) watching! 

Warmly, 

Heather