Recently a friend asked me why a bird was flying against the side view window of her car and what she could do to prevent it. Common in spring and during the migration periods of April to June and August to November, windows become mirrors for male birds, perceiving them as another bird or part of the continuing landscape. If you have ever walked into a glass door, you understand how dangerous it can be.

Sadly, most collisions occur at high rise buildings in urban areas, especially in towns where lights from offices remain turned on all night, and birds do not recognize a man-made window but think it is just another area of the individual flight pattern of a species.

This light pollution is also affecting the migration pattern of many birds as well as causing harm to them.

In spring, males establishing and defending territories is a primary reason for this behavior. Mockingbirds, robins and cardinals are the most common birds exhibiting this behavior. The male sees his reflection and views it as a rival in his territory. As long as he sees that reflection, he will continue to attack until he breeds and the nest is constructed. One exception is the cardinal who maintains his territory year-round.

As males continue to defend their territory, this leaves them exhausted and weak, and if they are fighting their reflection, they end up many times with a concussion or death from a broken neck.

There are various options to prevent bird collisions with our windows that are both easy and safe. Installing a screen to prevent the reflection is the best option and most permanent.

Cornell University suggests covering the window with one-way transparent film which allows you to see thru the window, but appears opaque to birds. Blinds closed or half-closed will deter birds from flying close or crashing into the window.

Another possibility is placing your landscaping close to your windows with bushes, trees and bird baths to keep prevent them from flying fast. Closing drapes and blinds at night eliminates the appearance of a continuing landscape.

Other suggestions include using stickers or plastic wrap on the outer glass, attaching hanging objects that sparkle or sway in the breeze, and covering the windows with plant netting if there is no screen. Finally, the easiest option is to put off washing your windows, as dirty windows prevent a mirror effect!

The answer to my friend’s problem was solved easily. I suggested she purchase two cheap shower caps and place them over the car’s side view mirrors when the car is parked. Easy, cheap, and effective. Problem solved.

For more details on this topic, go to https://go.osu.edu/birdstrikes

Kane Shipka is an Ohio State University Extension Master Gardener Volunteer in Mahoning County.