Why do birds peck at windows?

• Birds see their reflection in the window and think the image is an intruder in their territory.
• Pecking behavior typically occurs in the April to May, but can occur during any nesting season.

How do I stop birds from pecking at windows?

• The key is to prevent the birds from seeing their reflection.
  • Hang objects in front of the window.
  • Add stickers, decals, or labels to the window.
  • Turn on a lamp behind the window or shine a light in front of the window.
  • Close blinds or curtains.
  • Smear the window with dish soap, then spray it off when the nesting season is completed.

Millions of birds are killed each year from injuries sustained after flying into windows. The practices listed above will help reduce those unnecessary deaths.

Hang objects in front or behind a large window to reduce the window’s reflectivity. Photo by Stephen M. Vantassel.