A Lasting Solution for Bird Collisions at the Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Posted October 3rd 2022

A Lasting Solution for Bird Collisions at the Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Each year in North America, up to 1 billion birds will die as a result of a window collision. Migratory species are often lost prior to reproduction during spring migration, while fledglings may be lost while attempting their first migration in the fall.

And while many of us continue to advocate for mandatory building standards to prevent harmful window collisions, bird species across North America are running out of time. Now more than ever, they need our help to protect their declining populations.

Unlike the previous generations who saw birds like the now extinct Bachman’s Warbler and Seaside Sparrow as abundant, we know that a billion birds are lost each year due to increases in the use of glass in buildings alone.

Fortunately, studies show that there is an effective solution available to mitigate the alarming number of bird deaths. Research has proven that when special window treatments, like Feather Friendly, are applied to commercial and residential structures they are incredibly effective in preventing glass collisions, thus reducing the number of avian fatalities.

In fact, most recently, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources installed our bird deterrent markers to prevent bird collisions at their headquarters in Annapolis.

Today’s blog will highlight this recent commercial installation and how our long-lasting and durable bird deterrent markers work to lessen the disconcerting number of bird strikes and protect bird species for the foreseeable future.

DNR and Safe Skies partner to install Feather Friendly 

A few months ago, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Safe Skies Maryland partnered up to reduce and prevent bird collisions at the department’s headquarters, the Tawes State Office Building in Annapolis.

The four-story structure was built in the early 1970s and includes the beautiful Helen Avalynne Tawes Garden, a forested urban park that is home to many species of birds, including mourning doves, northern cardinals, and Carolina chickadees.

Safe Skies Maryland, an initiative of the Maryland Ornithological Society, worked alongside DNR to install Feather Friendly deterrent markers on the glass windows of the historic building. Our solution will go on to protect DNR for 15 years or more, so they can enjoy the benefit of protecting local birds for the many years to come.

But the Maryland Park Service, which manages the Tawes Garden, understands that the work is far from over... They are also continuously urging businesses and residents in Maryland and beyond to join them in conserving and protecting local birds with proven solutions.

Prevent bird collisions with Feather Friendly

Feather Friendly is the trusted choice for preventing bird collisions on commercial and residential buildings. Our window markers are highly effective in making glass visible to birds and preventing deadly collisions without compromising a building’s aesthetics or views.

Unlike full films, Feather Friendly markers cover only about 8 percent of the glass, minimizing the visual impact while maximizing the durability and longevity of the treatment. Our commercial and residential solutions have even been tested and approved by the American Bird Conservancy and FLAP Canada.

For more than 16 years, Feather Friendly has treated over 5 million square feet of glass in a multitude of climates and environments, without compromising on quality or performance. And we promise to continue fighting for our birds.

Connect with us today to learn more about our residential and commercial solutions and how you can do your part in changing the flight of bird conservation.

Partners

We are honoured to form partnerships with organizations who demonstrate
an ongoing commitment to bird conservation.

American Bird Conservancy FLAP Canada Audubon Association of Zoos and Aquariums