Birds crashing into windows is an unfortunate but common occurrence for many homeowners. Birds usually do not see clear glass as a barrier and accidentally fly directly into windows, often resulting in injury or death. Using fishing line to deter birds from windows is one simple and effective solution to prevent bird collisions.
Why Do Birds Crash Into Windows?
There are a few key reasons why birds collide with windows:
- Clear or reflective glass is invisible to birds. From a distance, birds cannot distinguish glass from an open flight path.
- Window reflections of trees, skies, and power lines look like natural continuation of habitat.
- Birds focus straight ahead as they fly and do not have peripheral vision to see glass perpendicularly.
These factors result in birds unintentionally flying directly into glass. Up to 1 billion birds die annually from window collisions in the United States, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
How Does Fishing Line Deter Birds?
Fishing line strung vertically outside windows creates a visible barrier to alert birds to the glass. The fishing line sways and glints in sunlight, catching birds’ attention and preventing them from flying into windows. Key advantages of using fishing line include:
- Thin line is nearly invisible to humans but visible to birds.
- Flexible line moves in wind to reflect light and warn birds.
- Simple and inexpensive solution using common household materials.
Fishing line can be set up quickly and easily on most windows. When installed correctly, fishing line effectively keeps birds away and reduces collisions by up to 80%, according to Audubon Society estimates.
What Type of Fishing Line Should Be Used?
The most effective fishing line for deterring birds from windows has the following properties:
- Monofilament: Single strand of nylon or plastic is less visible than braided line or wire.
- 10-20 lb test: Heavier line is too thick and more visible. Lighter line may sag or break.
- Clear or light green: More difficult for birds to see than darker opaque colors.
Quality monofilament fishing line in the 10 to 20 pound range is ideal for preventing window collisions. This provides visibility to birds while remaining nearly invisible to humans.
How Far Apart Should Fishing Line Be Spaced?
Proper spacing of the fishing line is key for an effective deterrent. General spacing guidelines include:
- Space lines no more than 3-4 inches apart.
- Draw lines taut so they do not flap or sag in wind.
- Run lines vertically on full height of window pane.
- Extend fishing line slightly above and below window frame edges.
Spacing lines too far apart can allow birds to fly between and still hit glass. Having taut, vertical lines no more than 4 inches apart across the entire window provides the best coverage.
What is the Best Way to Attach Fishing Line?
Fishing line can be attached using eye screws or duct tape on the window frame:
Eye Screws Method
- Install eye screws or hooks into upper and lower window casings.
- Tie fishing line to upper screws and draw line down to lower screws.
- Wrap fishing line around lower screw and tie off.
- Adjust lines to be vertical and evenly spaced 3-4 inches apart.
Duct Tape Method
- Run pieces of duct tape vertically on window pane edges.
- Attach end of fishing line behind upper tape strip.
- Draw line down and affix it behind lower tape strip.
- Use tape to hold additional fishing lines spaced evenly.
Eye screws provide a more permanent solution. Duct tape allows quick temporary application. Both can be effective means to hang and space the fishing line deterrent.
Where Should Fishing Line Be Applied on Windows?
Prioritize installing fishing line in the following areas:
- Large picture windows – Glass expanses are dangerous bird traps.
- Windows with external reflections – Bushes, trees and other habitats reflected in glass attract birds.
- Windows adjacent to bird feeders – Feeders attract birds that may hit nearby glass.
- 2nd story and above windows – Birds are less agile higher up to avoid collisions.
Pay special consideration to large first floor windows and locations where outside environments are reflected or may attract birds near houses. Prioritizing fishing line in these areas first provides great deterrent value.
Tips for Preventing Window Collisions
In addition to fishing line, the following tips can further help prevent bird collisions:
- Move indoor house plants away from windows so birds are not drawn to the greenery.
- Install exterior sun shades, awnings or screens to break up window reflections.
- Use decals, tape or window film to make glass more visible to birds.
- Turn off unnecessary interior lights at night to avoid attracting birds.
Combining fishing line with other remedies like screens, blinds and window films can establish even greater protection against window collisions.
Conclusion
Fishing line is a simple, inexpensive and highly effective solution for deterring birds from windows. The proper fishing line material, spacing, installation and placement can stop over 80% of window collisions. Paired with other remedies like decals, shutting blinds or moving plants, fishing line can make windows safer for birds in any home or office building.