Bird Attacking Window

John Dengate explained that in spring, as the day length increases, birds are preparing for the breeding season. Male birds sing, display and defend their territories vigorously, attacking rivals and chasing them away. This is a good survival strategy because it means that areas don't become overpopulated, so there is enough food to go round when the young chicks hatch. However, this territorial behaviour can sometimes be a worry for homeowners. In our segment a white plumed honeyeater was shown throwing itself up against a window. The bird could see its own reflection in the glass, and was trying to chase this 'rival' male away. The owners of the house put up a tarpaulin to discourage the bird, but that didn't work.

White plumed honeyeater (Lichenostomus penicillatus)

Commonly found in tall eucalypt woodlands and open forests, the white plumed honeyeater is a yellowish bird, 15-19cm long, with a white plume behind the eye highlighted by a narrow black crescent. Its diet consists of manna, honeydew and insects.

What to do

Birds that attack windows and mirrors don't usually hurt themselves. In fact, birds need this aggressive defence behaviour as a build up to mating. If you can't stand the birds attacking your windows, John has a few helpful suggestions: Use an opaque household cleanser to cover the outside of the window, preventing the bird from seeing its own reflection. Leave the household cleanser on until the end of the breeding season, then simply hose it off.   Take a piece of cardboard and cut out a large hawk shape, or buy a ready-made one. Hang this up close to the window to deter the bird from that area.

Further information

Hawk bird scarers are available from most produce stores for about $33.

Copyright CTC Productions 2001