We’re passionate about birds and nature. That’s why we opened a Wild Birds Unlimited Nature Shop in our community.
Village West #17,
3330 W. 26th
Erie, PA 16506
Phone: (814) 838-5145
Email: Send Message
Store Hours:
Mon - Thurs: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Fri: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm
Sat: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sun: Closed
Window strikes are responsible for a large number of bird deaths every year. It is estimated that 100 million to 1 billion birds die each year as a result of colliding with windows. Migrating species suffer the highest casualties, especially during spring and fall migrations. Birds that collide with windows may die instantly, be eaten by a predator while stunned from the collision, or die away from the collision point from injuries they sustain, such as fractured bones or beak, head trauma, or internal bleeding. Birds collide with windows for several reasons: they are attemting to attack their own reflection (learn how to deal with this, Here), they can not see the glass because of an opposite window which creates a "corridor effect", or they see a reflection of the outdoors around them in the glass (the "mirror effect").
Breaking up the reflection on the outside of the window is the best way to prevent window strikes. Window screens, moving streamers, decals, and window feeders placed on the outside of a window can all reduce the chance of birds striking the windows. You can also soap up the outside of windows to break up reflections.
Birds startled while there are at your bird feeder or birdbath often fall victim to window strikes. Place feeders and baths either close to the window so birds don't have time to gain speed before hitting your windows(1 to 3ft. away) or far away (20 to 30ft. away). Feeders and baths located in the kill zone, especially between 10 to 20 ft. away, should not be in a direct line with any windows to cut down on potential strikes.
Despite your best efforts, birds may still hit a window. If the bird does not recover in a few moments and is motionless, put an upside down box or colander over it, or place it in a small box with a lid, or a grocery bag that has been folded closed. Put the container in a warm, quiet location. Do not put any food or water in with the bird and do not attempt to force the bird to eat or drink. Avoid handling the bird and do not stress the bird by constantly checking on it. Release it outside as soon as it is alert and active (usually within an hour.) If the bird is seriously injured or doesn't recover in a few hours, contact a local wildlife rehabber. Our closest rehabilitator is Sky's Spirit Wildlife Center in Venango County: 814-786-9677. You can also contact Tamarack Wildlife Rehab Center for information at 814-763-2574
