Bird Hit Window: How To Help And Prevent Collisions

Have you ever been sitting inside and heard a thump against your window? It's a heartbreaking sound, especially when you realize a bird has flown into your glass. Birds, especially during migration seasons, sometimes don't see windows and can collide with them, leading to injury or even death. But don't worry, guys! If you find a bird that's hit your window, there are definitely steps you can take to help. This article will walk you through what to do, from the immediate aftermath to ensuring the bird has the best chance of recovery and release.

Immediate Assessment and Action

So, you've found a bird that's hit your window. The first few moments are crucial for the bird's survival. Your immediate assessment and action can significantly impact its chances of recovery. The initial moments after a bird strikes a window are critical for its survival. Approaching the situation with a calm and thoughtful manner can greatly improve the bird's chances of recovery. First things first, approach the bird calmly and quietly. Start by carefully observing the bird. Is it conscious? Is it breathing? Are there any obvious signs of injury, like bleeding or broken wings? Sometimes, the bird might be stunned but otherwise okay, while other times, the injuries might be more severe.

If the bird appears stunned but doesn't seem to have any major injuries, it might just need a safe place to recover for a bit. The best thing to do in this scenario is to create a temporary safe haven. Find a cardboard box or a pet carrier – anything that's well-ventilated and dark will work. Gently place a soft cloth or paper towels at the bottom of the box to provide a comfortable surface for the bird. This helps the bird feel secure and reduces stress, which is a huge factor in its recovery. Carefully pick up the bird, being mindful of any potential injuries. Wear gloves if you have them to minimize the risk of disease transmission between you and the bird. Gently place the bird inside the box, and cover the top loosely. This darkness helps calm the bird and reduces further stress. Place the box in a quiet, warm, and safe location away from pets, children, and loud noises. A spare room or a garage can work well. The goal here is to minimize any additional stress on the bird, as stress can significantly hinder its recovery process. Leave the bird undisturbed in the box for about an hour. This quiet time allows the bird to recover from the initial shock and disorientation. After an hour, check on the bird without disturbing it too much. If the bird seems more alert and is moving around, it might be ready to be released. If it's still stunned or showing signs of injury, it will need further care. Remember, the initial steps you take are crucial in providing the best possible outcome for the bird. Your calm and careful approach can make a significant difference in its recovery journey. If you are unsure or the bird appears seriously injured, contacting a wildlife rehabilitator is the best course of action. They have the expertise and resources to provide the necessary care.

Providing Temporary Care

If after an hour, the bird still seems disoriented or injured, it will require temporary care. Providing temporary care involves creating a safe and comfortable environment where the bird can recover, and knowing how to minimize stress during this period is essential for the bird's recovery. Setting up the right environment is key to helping the bird recover. The box you've already prepared is perfect for this. Ensure the box is in a quiet, dark, and warm place. Darkness helps to calm the bird, as it reduces external stimuli. Warmth is also crucial, especially if the bird is in shock. Avoid placing the box in direct sunlight or in a drafty area. A stable temperature will help the bird conserve its energy and focus on healing.

While the bird is recovering, it's important to minimize any unnecessary stress. Stress can significantly impede the bird's recovery process. Keep the box away from high-traffic areas, loud noises, and pets. Children should also be kept away from the box to avoid further disturbing the bird. When you need to check on the bird, do so quietly and quickly. Avoid making sudden movements or loud noises that might startle it. Handling the bird should be kept to a minimum. The less you handle the bird, the less stress it will experience. Only handle the bird if it's absolutely necessary, such as when checking for injuries or transporting it to a wildlife rehabilitator. When you do need to handle the bird, wear gloves to protect yourself and the bird from potential diseases. Gently cup the bird in your hands, supporting its body and wings. Avoid squeezing the bird or restricting its breathing.

One of the most common questions people have is whether to offer the bird food or water. Generally, it's best to avoid giving the bird food or water unless you are specifically instructed to do so by a wildlife rehabilitator. A stunned or injured bird may not be able to swallow properly, and attempting to feed or water it could cause it to choke. Additionally, providing the wrong type of food can actually harm the bird. The bird's primary need at this stage is rest and a quiet environment to recover. If the bird needs hydration or nutrition, a wildlife rehabilitator will be able to provide it in a safe and appropriate manner. Monitoring the bird's condition is crucial during this temporary care period. Observe the bird for any changes in its behavior or physical condition. If you notice any signs of worsening condition, such as difficulty breathing, bleeding, or inability to stand, it's essential to contact a wildlife rehabilitator immediately.

Identifying Injuries and When to Seek Professional Help

While you're providing temporary care, identifying injuries is a critical part of helping the bird recover, and knowing when to seek professional help can make all the difference. Before handling the bird, take a moment to visually assess it. Look for any obvious signs of injury, such as drooping wings, bleeding, or an inability to stand or perch. If you see any of these signs, it's a clear indication that the bird needs professional help. Once the bird is in the box, you can do a more thorough examination. Gently check for broken wings or legs. A broken wing might droop unnaturally or the bird might be unable to fold it properly. Feel along the bird's body for any unusual bumps or swelling, which could indicate a fracture. Be extremely gentle during this process to avoid causing further injury. Examine the bird's eyes and beak for any signs of trauma. Sometimes, a bird that has hit a window might have head trauma, which can manifest as swollen eyes or an inability to focus. If the bird's beak is damaged, it might have difficulty eating and will need specialized care.

Internal injuries are harder to detect, but there are certain signs you can look for. If the bird is having difficulty breathing, is bleeding from the mouth or nostrils, or is consistently lethargic, it might have internal injuries. These types of injuries require immediate professional attention. It's crucial to know when to seek professional help. While providing temporary care is helpful, there are situations where the bird's condition requires the expertise of a wildlife rehabilitator. If you observe any of the following, it's time to contact a professional: Obvious injuries such as broken wings or legs, significant bleeding, head trauma (swollen eyes, disorientation), difficulty breathing, inability to stand or perch, seizures or tremors, the bird remains in a stunned state for more than a few hours.

Wildlife rehabilitators are trained professionals who specialize in the care of injured and orphaned wild animals. They have the knowledge, skills, and resources to provide the necessary medical treatment and rehabilitation. Contacting a wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible can significantly improve the bird's chances of survival and eventual release back into the wild. You can find a local wildlife rehabilitator by searching online or contacting your local animal shelter, humane society, or veterinarian's office. When you contact a rehabilitator, be prepared to provide them with as much information as possible about the bird's condition and the circumstances in which you found it. This information will help them assess the situation and provide the best possible care. Remember, your role is to provide immediate care and ensure the bird gets the professional help it needs. Attempting to treat serious injuries yourself can do more harm than good. By recognizing the signs of injury and knowing when to seek help, you can give the bird the best chance at a full recovery.

Creating a Bird-Friendly Environment to Prevent Future Collisions

Once you've cared for a bird that has hit your window, you might be wondering how to prevent future collisions. Creating a bird-friendly environment around your home can significantly reduce the chances of birds hitting your windows. Bird collisions with windows are a common issue, but there are several effective strategies you can implement to make your windows more visible to birds. One of the most effective ways to prevent collisions is to break up the reflections on your windows. Birds often fly into windows because they see the reflection of the sky or trees and perceive it as a continuation of their environment. By making the glass less reflective, you can help birds recognize the window as a solid barrier.

There are several methods for reducing window reflections. Applying decals or window stickers is a simple and effective solution. You can find a variety of decals specifically designed for bird safety, often featuring patterns or shapes that birds can easily see. It's important to place the decals close together – ideally, no more than 2 inches apart – to effectively deter birds. Another option is to use window film or tape. These products can be applied to the exterior of your windows to create a visual barrier that birds can detect. Some films are designed to be transparent to humans but visible to birds, while others feature patterns or textures that break up reflections. Exterior screens are also an effective way to reduce reflections. Screens not only make the window surface more visible but also provide a physical barrier that can cushion the impact if a bird does collide with the window.

In addition to breaking up reflections, external shading can help reduce the amount of reflected light. Awnings, shutters, and overhangs can all cast shadows on your windows, making them less reflective. Landscaping can also play a role in preventing collisions. Positioning bird feeders and bird baths either very close to your windows (within 3 feet) or farther away (more than 30 feet) can reduce the risk of collisions. Birds are less likely to build up speed when approaching windows from a short distance, and at a greater distance, they have a clearer view of the surroundings. If you have indoor plants near your windows, consider moving them or using curtains or blinds to break up the reflection of the greenery. Birds might try to fly towards the plants they see reflected in the glass.

Making your home a bird-friendly environment is an ongoing process. Regularly assess your windows and surroundings, and make adjustments as needed. During migration seasons, when bird activity is higher, it's especially important to take extra precautions. By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the risk of bird collisions and create a safer environment for the birds in your neighborhood. Remember, even small changes can make a big difference in protecting these beautiful creatures. So, let’s all do our part to help our feathered friends navigate their world safely!

By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to help a bird that has hit your window and contribute to preventing future collisions. Every action counts in preserving our avian friends!