Having a bird constantly pecking at your window can be annoying and even damaging to the window itself. However, there are several effective methods you can try to deter birds and prevent them from pecking. In this article, we’ll explore why birds peck, how to identify the culprit, and give you solutions to humanely and safely get rid of window-pecking birds.
Why Do Birds Peck at Windows?
Birds peck at windows for a few main reasons:
- They see their reflection in the glass and think it’s another bird, so they peck to scare off the “intruder.” This is common during mating season when birds are territorial.
- They see objects inside the home, such as houseplants or food, that they want to get to.
- They see outdoor objects like trees or the sky reflected in the window glass and try to get to them.
- They simply like the noise the pecking makes.
The pecking behavior is instinctual for birds and they often do it without realizing the window is not an actual opening or passageway. The sound and sensation of pecking at what seems like another bird or object interests them and keeps them coming back.
Identify the Culprit
To stop the window pecking, you first need to figure out which bird is the culprit. Look for these clues:
- Feathers or smudge marks around one particular area of the window.
- Droppings on the ground below the window or on the windowsill.
- One type of bird that frequently visits that area.
The most common window-pecking bird species include:
- Robins
- Northern Cardinals
- Mourning Doves
- Downy Woodpeckers
- Blue Jays
- American Goldfinches
But any territorial bird could be the culprit. Pay attention to when the pecking occurs and look for birds active in your yard at that time.
Deterring Window-Pecking Birds
Here are some effective solutions to stop birds from pecking your windows:
Install decals, reflectors or tape on the window
Placing decals, reflectors, or tape strips in a grid pattern or other design on the window glass can deter birds in a few ways:
- Reflective surfaces scare them from seeing their reflection.
- Vertical lines can make birds think they cannot fly through the window opening
- The items disrupt the bird’s view enough to remove the stimulus causing them to peck.
Some specific products to try include:
- Bird-specific window decals like those from WindowAlert that have UV-reflective coating.
- Hawk silhouette decals that mimic bird predators.
- Netting, screens, or perforated films that let light through but obsure vision.
- Reflective metallic tapes and replicated predator eyes.
Move decals regularly so birds don’t get used to them. Place on both sides of window for maximum effect.
Install a physical barrier
If decals aren’t working, installing a physical barrier may be required to prevent access to the window. Options include:
- Plastic, nylon, or metal mesh netting, installed a few inches from the window so birds can’t reach it.
- Shutters, curtains, or blinds kept shut to block the window.
- Exterior awnings over windows.
Use these sparingly so birds aren’t tempted to peck at them. Ensure any netting is installed tautly so birds cannot get tangled.
Use scent or taste repellents
Applying repellent gels, liquids or tape near the window can deter birds with unpleasant smells or tastes. Ammonia-based products work well. Other options include:
- Mint oil, garlic oil, or cinnamon oil repellent sprays.
- Hot sauce, garlic powder, or bitter apple sprayed on tape or cotton balls.
- Methyl anthranilate gel, which birds dislike.
Reapply outdoor repellents frequently as rain washes them away. Wear gloves when using strong chemicals.
Install a sprinkler device
Motion-activated sprinkler deterrents attach to the eaves and spray birds with a quick, harmless burst of water when triggered. They are effective for scaring off birds from specific areas.
Use predator decoys and sounds
Birds are scared away by sights and sounds that signal a predator is near. Deterrents include:
- Lifelike predator decoys, like hawks, owls, or snakes.
- Flashing lights mimicking predator eyes.
- Distress call systems that emit alarming bird noises.
- Rustling or crinkling aluminum pie pans, mylar balloons, or reflective ribbon near windows.
Move decoys regularly so birds don’t become desensitized. Remove extra feeders and baths near the window so birds are less attracted to the area.
Apply opaque window film or paint
If all else fails, opaque window films and coatings prevent birds from seeing through the glass while still allowing light through. Options include:
- UV-resistant films that reflect UV rays.
- Privacy window films, often applied with adhesive or static cling.
- Temporary spray window coatings that can be removed later.
- Permanent exterior window paint or glass etching products.
These may not be aesthetically pleasing for all home types but are very effective as a last resort.
Cover windows fully when not in use
As a temporary solution, completely cover windows with an opaque material like cardboard, curtains, or shutters when not in use or if pecking occurs at certain times. This removes all external stimulus triggering the behavior.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a wildlife specialist or pest control professional if:
- No DIY solutions are working to deter the bird after 2-3 weeks of consistent effort.
- The pecking is causing significant damage to the window or frame.
- You need assistance safely accessing second-story or high exterior windows.
A pro can inspect for structural damage, identify bird entry points, and may have commercial-grade bird deterrents like rooftop wire systems not available to consumers. This typically costs $75-$250. Calling them sooner rather than later can help avoid worsening damage.
Prevent Window Collisions
In addition to stopping pecking, also take measures to prevent birds from accidentally flying into your windows. This typically happens because they don’t see the clear glass. To reduce collisions:
- Install UV-reflective films, decals, or exterior screens on windows to make glass more visible to birds.
- Keep exterior lights off at night to avoid attracting birds that may hit windows.
- Reduce vegetation and bird feeders directly in front of windows.
- If a collision happens, dim lights and use sheets or towels to safely block the window without scaring the bird further.
When the Problem is Unavoidable
In some cases, birds may persistently peck at windows that cannot be modified, like rental properties or historical buildings. As frustrating as this is, it’s usually temporary during mating season. Here are some coping strategies:
- Use earplugs and noise-cancelling devices to mask the sound if pecking occurs at night or early morning when trying to sleep.
- Close window treatments, blinds, or curtains to help muffle the noise.
- Use a fan, music, or white noise machine to drown out the pecking sound.
- Angle furniture like beds and desks away from frequently pecked windows.
If it continues more than 4-6 weeks, consult your landlord, a wildlife expert, or pest control for guidance on deterrents you may be allowed to use.
Summary of Key Points
- Identify the culprit bird species causing the pecking. Look for feathers, droppings, or a particular bird frequenting the area.
- Try deterrents like decals, reflectors, barriers, repellents, predator decoys, and sprinklers.
- Window films, paint, or coatings can help if other methods fail. Also install collision deterrents.
- Get professional help for serious or persistent peck damage. Use earplugs or white noise to cope if unavoidable.
- Focus efforts during breeding season when pecking is most likely to occur and remove attractants.
Conclusion
Window pecking by territorial birds is a common and frustrating problem for homeowners. With some diligent detective work to identify the culprit, strategic use of humane deterrents tailored for that species, and modifications to the window itself in severe cases, you can successfully evict the pecking birds. Remember to exercise patience and persist with different methods, changing things up frequently, for best results. And never hesitate to enlist the guidance of wildlife specialists when you need additional expertise to get the problem handled.