Bird Collision Hot Spot Takes Steps to Find Solution

A portion of SAAM’s remodel and expansion with large reflective windows that overlook and reflect surrounding trees and sky. These conditions make it hard for birds to see the glass—resulting in bird-window collisions.

Seattle Asian Art Museum is testing collision-deterrent options to save birds.

The recent expansion of the Seattle Asian Art Museum (SAAM) in Volunteer Park has introduced a stunning new architectural feature: expansive glass windows that flood the gallery with natural light and create a harmonious blend with the surrounding greenery. However, this beautiful design has inadvertently led to a troubling issue—an increase in bird collisions and mortality.

Birds Connect Seattle is working with SAAM to address this problem. The museum’s large, reflective windows, which mirror the surrounding trees and sky, have created a hazardous environment for birds, making the glass nearly invisible to them and leading to frequent collisions.

For the past five years, the Seattle Bird Collision Monitoring Project (SBCMP), a key initiative of Birds Connect Seattle, has been tracking bird-window collisions across various buildings. Our data helps estimate local mortality rates and identify collision hot spots—areas where collision rates are particularly high.

SAAM emerged as one such hotspot during our monitoring of the museum’s new expansion in Fall 2023. The data suggest the new windows kill 100 or more birds every year, and largely just along the northeast facing side.

The scene next to a culturally modified tree in the Wedgwood neighborhood. The chainlink fence in front of the tree is covered with signs urging that this and all trees be saved. In front are scatterings of flower pedals, in the middle of which someone placed a bouquet in a clear glass vase.

In response, Birds Connect Seattle compiled a report detailing the specific windows involved, the species affected, and overall mortality estimates. We also provided SAAM with several cost-effective collision deterrent solutions.

Upon receiving our report, SAAM’s directors promptly acknowledged the issue and began the process of addressing it. Their swift response and commitment to wildlife conservation are commendable. The museum is currently testing four different collision deterrent options with the intention to install a permanent solution in the near future.

This proactive approach underscores the impact of combining volunteer data with effective advocacy to protect wildlife. Thanks to our volunteers and advocates, hundreds of future bird deaths will be prevented. As migration seasons pose ongoing risks, timely action and installation of collision deterrents remain crucial.

Let’s Make Seattle Bird-Safe

While individual building solutions are important, broader policy change is essential for widespread impact. For nearly five years, we’ve been advocating for comprehensive bird-safe building policies in Seattle. It’s time for Seattle to join cities like NYC, Portland, and Vancouver in prioritizing bird safety in building regulations.

Contact Your Lawmaker Today