Preventing Window Strike for Native Birds

With its lush landscapes and vibrant birdlife, Waiheke Island is a paradise for nature lovers. However, one silent threat looms over our feathered friends: window strike/glass collision. Native Bird Rescue, run by Karen Saunders, is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing injured birds, many of whom suffer from window collisions - contributing to up to 50% of all bird admissions at the rescue.

Waiheke Island is seeing an increase in balustrades and houses with vast amounts of glass, which pose a significant risk to birds. "Glass collision is a silent killer," says Karen Saunders. "We need Bird Safe glass in NZ to protect our kākā, kererū, kōtare, ruru, tui, tauhou, and riroriro."

Kererū window strike victim at Native Bird Rescue

While window strike can be fatal for all birds, larger species like kererū and kākā suffer more due to their body weight intensifying the impact, and as we move closer to Waiheke becoming stoat and rat-free, it’s vital to protect growing numbers of birds from this preventable hazard. Here’s how you can help.

Why Does Window Strike Happen?

Window strike occurs primarily because birds cannot see the glass. They might perceive a clear path through what appears to be an open space, often mistaking reflections of trees and sky or seeing through to another window.

Karen Saunders notes a spike in window strikes during autumn when adolescent birds and the low position of the sun create a dangerous combination. "At this time of year, there are heaps of juvenile birds around," says Karen. "They are testing their limits and abilities a bit like teenagers who like to drive too fast and think they are immortal."

Simple Solutions for Everyone

It’s heartening to know that you don’t need to spend a lot of money to make your windows bird-safe. Many of these solutions can be done with items you already have at home.

By implementing these straightforward and effective measures, we can significantly reduce the risk of window strike and help protect the native and endemic birds on Waiheke Island. Native Bird Rescue continues to do invaluable work in rescuing and rehabilitating injured birds, but prevention is always the best cure.

Easy Fixes for Existing Windows and Glass Balustrades

Preventing glass collisions doesn’t have to be costly or complicated. Here are some simple, effective solutions you can implement right away:

Firstly, identify the windows that pose a threat to our wild birds; you don't need to address all windows. Focus on any windows where a bird can see right through to the other side of the house and think it can fly straight through. Corner windows are particularly lethal. Additionally, any windows with reflections can be dangerous, as birds see the reflected trees and sky and think they can fly into that landscape. Glass balustrades, which have become very common, offer a beautiful view but are not bird-friendly. For advice, you are welcome to call Native Bird Rescue on 0204739464.

Dot Patterns and Tape: Native Bird Rescue’s recommendation is Feather Friendly as it has been tested and is 100% proven to be bird-safe.  Use bird-friendly tape with dot patterns. These are affordable and easy to apply. Feather Friendly® window decals are a stick-on dot grid developed in North America where migrating birds collide with skyscrapers en mass. The small dots let birds see the windows without obstructing the view from inside. They are available for purchase via  Kererū Discovery here.

Decals and Stickers: Apply decals, stickers, sun catchers, mylar strips, or even sticky notes to the outside surface of the window. These are most effective when spaced very closely together. While a large decal may prevent large birds from flying through, smaller birds can still see and attempt to fly through the gaps around it. Forest birds, like canopy flyers, naturally navigate through gaps in branches and will do the same with glass. Understanding the small spaces that birds like the tauhou can fly through emphasises the importance of a 2 x 2-inch coverage pattern.

Curtains and Blinds: Draw privacy curtains or blinds to break up the line of sight. Even partially closed blinds can help.

Window Paint or Soap: Mark the outside of the window with soap or tempera paint, using a grid pattern of 2 inches by 2 inches. This method is inexpensive and allows for creativity. This option will make your windows completely bird-safe. 

Screens and Netting: Installing mosquito screens over windows or covering glass with netting can prevent birds from hitting the window. Ensure the netting is at least 3 inches from the glass and taut to bounce birds off safely.

Tips for New Homes and Remodels

Sun Shades and Awnings: Install external sun shades or awnings to block reflections of sunlight. Remote-controlled shades are also available.

Full-Screen Windows: Consider windows with screens covering the entire outside surface, especially for new constructions.

Vertical Blinds: Add interior vertical blinds and keep the slats only half open to disrupt the illusion of open space.

What Should You Do When A Bird Flies Into Glass? 

If it is a large bird, such as a kākā, kererū, or ruru, it needs to be immediately contained. Cover it with a laundry basket or place it in a box, as these larger birds are likely to have fractured bones in their chest area. They may be able to fly temporarily due to the adrenaline, but once it wears off, they will be grounded, in pain, and at risk of dying from predation or starvation.

Smaller birds generally suffer from concussions. Native Bird Rescue (NBR) recommends placing them in a box for 30-40 minutes, keeping it warm, dark, and quiet. Do not give them food or water. After this time, open the box. If the bird can fly out, it is likely fine. If it cannot, it will need further examination.

Please call Native Bird Rescue on 0204739464 for advice or assistance.