Cardinals and Robins Hitting Windows? Here's What to Do
Why Do Birds Keep Flying Into Windows?
When they spot what looks like a rival, they try to chase it away by pecking or flying at the glass.
This can go on for days or even weeks, especially during nesting season. Some birds get so aggressive they hurt themselves.
Quick Ways to Stop Birds from Attacking Windows
Block the Reflection
- Close curtains or blinds during the day.
- Use removable window film to break up the reflection.
- Cover car mirrors with a cloth or bag when parked.
Create Movement to Scare Them Away
Sometimes it takes more than the quick ways mentioned. Movement, humans, and predators may help discourage these aggressive birds.
These have worked well for many of our readers.
- Tape an 8.5x11 photo of a human face to the inside of the window. Face needs to cover entire page.
- Hang shiny metallic strips or ribbons outside. These work well but may cost more.
- Place a fake owl or hawk silhouette outside the window. Birds can get used to these, so move them around.
Metallic Strips Deter Birds
💡 Tip from James in Ontario: "I taped a picture of a face inside my window, and my cardinal stopped attacking right away."
Why Birds Crash Into Windows (And How to Prevent It)
Not all birds attack windows on purpose. Some crash into glass because they don't see it. They mistake reflections of trees or sky for open space and fly straight into the glass.
Ways to Prevent Collisions
- Use tape or ribbons on the outside of the window (place vertical strips 4 inches apart).
- Move bird feeders closer (within 3 feet) or farther away (over 30 feet).
- Keep houseplants away from windows so birds don't try to land on them.
- Install fine-mesh netting a few inches in front of the window.
Tip from Dave in Florida: "I put press-and-seal wrap on my window, and it worked instantly!"
One More Tip, and it's a good one. Alex Sally shares how a marking pen used as he describes, keeps the birds away. Watch his video below.
Link to Pens Glass Marking Pens
Final Checklist
- Close blinds or add window film.
- Hang shiny objects or fake predators.
- Move feeders and nesting spots.
- Add tape, netting, or decals to break up reflections.
- Use a glass marking pen for a subtle fix.
Most birds stop once nesting season ends and their babies leave the nest. But some birds, especially cardinals, may keep attacking year-round.
If the problem continues, use a combination of reflection blockers, physical barriers, and movement-based deterrents to stop the behavior.
Explore more about the Northern Cardinal Habits
Products Mentioned in This Article
Gene Planker is the creator of Wild-Bird-Watching.com, where he shares over 50 years of backyard birding experience. His guides help readers understand the nesting, feeding, and behavior of backyard birds.
Add evergreen cover or place roosting boxes near feeders.
Birds will use them to escape wind and snow.
A simple way to help them survive harsh nights.
"What an awesome website. My little one and I enjoy playing the different bird calls and watching some of the videos, thank you!"
– Linda B., Illinois