Madison Reporter

Billions of birds die each year after colliding with windows, according to organizers of an upcoming educational event in Middleton. The session, titled "Sustainable U: How to Prevent Bird Window Collisions," will take place on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 6:00 PM at the Middleton Public Library.

Brenna Marsicek from the Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance will lead the session. Attendees will learn about the reasons behind bird collisions with windows, including issues like reflections, clear glass, and nighttime lighting. The event will also cover practical solutions such as do-it-yourself decals, cords, and screens that can be installed by homeowners.

The presentation will include information on effective patterns and spacing guidelines for preventing collisions. Long-term strategies like retrofitting existing structures and using bird-friendly glass in new buildings will also be discussed.

Organizers say participants will leave with actionable ideas that are both easy and affordable to implement. The event aims to provide insight into how communities such as Middleton are incorporating bird-friendly design into local projects.

"Birds aren’t just beautiful — they’re essential to healthy ecosystems. By making a few small changes, you can save lives and keep our skies full of song," organizers stated.