Help, a bird hit my window!
Unfortunately, birds don’t understand the concept of glass. This often results in collisions with windows, sliding doors and other clear or reflective surfaces.
A bird that hits a window can suffer severe head trauma, including concussions. Birds that hit windows are often found sitting on the ground next to the surface they collided with, because the impact has dazed them.
The old advice was to leave the bird alone and see if it flies away. Now, we know that brain swelling from head trauma can take time to progress. This means that even if a bird flies away after the initial impact, they may pass away a few hours later because of increased cranial pressure.
Luckily, there are ways for wildlife rehabilitators to combat this brain swelling, with anti-inflammatories and painkillers to reduce the stress on the bird. Getting treatment quickly can be the difference between life and death, though, so it’s important to act fast.
If a bird collides with your window and you can go outside and pick it up, it definitely needs medical attention. Then follow these simple steps:
Put the bird into a box with airholes (and a lid!) lined with a washcloth or paper towels.
Do NOT offer it food or water as this can cause further complications.
Until you can bring the bird in, keep the box in a dark, warm, quiet place to reduce stress on the animal, as loud noises, bright lights, overstimulation and general hubbub can make their condition worse.
Then contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator (like Heights Wildlife Center) as soon as possible to discuss next steps and arrange to bring the bird in for care. Questions or unsure if you need to intervene? Give us a ring or text us at 216-232-3270.
