Dear readers,

As we prepare to enjoy the spectacular show put on by birds migrating south through our area, I want to take a moment to reflect on how we can be good stewards of the habitats these incredible species travel through. Building collisions are the No.2 cause of bird mortality due to human actions. (The No. 1 cause is predation by outdoor cats.) 

Each year, up to one billion birds die in building collisions in North America. The majority are migratory birds, which can collide with glass because they do not see it as an obstacle — they perceive the reflection of trees and foliage and think they are flying to shelter, so they crash into the window at full speed. These collisions are almost always fatal. Skyscrapers, small homes, and everything in between all pose threats during bird migration. 

I say this not to bring up yet another grim reality, but instead to share that solutions are attainable and near at hand, for both large buildings and ordinary homeowners. For new constructions, there are windows specially designed to be more visible to birds. For existing windows, there are cost-effective solutions that avoid any need for expensive replacements, notably the Feather Friendly window decals. McCormick Convention Center in Chicago was responsible for thousands of migratory bird deaths. Last year, the center installed Feather Friendly decals. So far it has been 95% effective in reducing migratory bird mortality, according to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

Installing bird-safe window decals or a similar solution can help protect birds, allowing more of them to survive their immense journeys south every year. Recent successes in making windows safer for birds combine new technology, practical thinking, and the can-do spirit of countless conservationists. It’s one meaningful way  we can all make a difference for wildlife.