Chicago Exhibition Center Modifies Windows to Prevent Bird Strikes After Tragic Kill The Chicago Exhibition Center is implementing comprehensive measures to prevent bird strikes following a devastating incident last year that killed hundreds of migratory birds. In October 2021, up to 300 birds collided with the center’s windows during a migratory stopover. The incident, primarily involving Yellow-rumped Warblers, was attributed to the reflective glass panes that birds mistook for open sky. To mitigate such tragedies, the center is undertaking a multi-pronged approach: * Reflective Tape: Bird-friendly reflective tape will be applied to the exterior of windows to create a visual barrier that birds can perceive. * Feather-Friendly Film: A specialized film will be applied to the interior of windows to further reduce reflection and create a visible surface for birds to navigate. * Bird Deterrents: Bird deterrent devices, such as ultrasonic emitters and mobile decoys, will be deployed to create an unwelcoming environment for birds. * Landscape Modification: Planting native vegetation and landscaping around the building will create a buffer zone and provide alternative resting areas for birds. “We recognize the importance of protecting our avian neighbors,” said Michael Anderson, General Manager of the Chicago Exhibition Center. “These modifications are a necessary step to ensure the safety of migratory birds and preserve the biodiversity of our surroundings.” The exhibition center is working closely with bird conservation organizations and experts to ensure the effectiveness of these measures. Regular monitoring and assessments will be conducted to track bird behavior and identify any potential blind spots. The implementation of these modifications is a testament to the commitment of the Chicago Exhibition Center to environmental stewardship and the welfare of birds. By creating a safe and welcoming environment for migratory species, the center aims to safeguard the delicate balance of the ecosystem and contribute to avian conservation efforts.Bird Strike Prevention at Chicago Exhibition CenterBird Strike Prevention at Chicago Exhibition Center The McCormick Place Lakeside Center in Chicago has embarked on a $1.2 million project to prevent bird strikes following a tragic incident last fall where hundreds of songbirds perished after crashing into the building’s windows. To mitigate this issue, the center is installing a special film etched with tiny dots onto its windows. These dots help birds distinguish between artificial barriers and the natural environment. The installation, which began in June, is expected to be completed by early September, coinciding with the peak of fall migrations. The October incident, in which nearly 1,000 songbirds died, was attributed to a combination of factors, including optimal migration conditions, rainfall, and the exhibition hall’s low-profile structure with extensive windows and bright lights. Experts estimate that window strikes claim the lives of hundreds of millions of birds annually in the United States. Birds are unable to perceive clear or reflective glass as a solid obstacle and often mistake it for vegetation or open spaces. Migratory birds, particularly nocturnal species such as sparrows and warblers, rely heavily on celestial cues for navigation. Artificial lighting from buildings can attract and disorient these birds, leading to fatal collisions or prolonged flight around the light sources until exhaustion sets in. To address this problem, cities like New York City have implemented measures to limit light pollution during migration seasons. Additionally, the National Audubon Society’s Lights Out program encourages urban centers to dim or turn off non-essential lighting during these critical periods. Nearly 50 major cities in the US and Canada have adopted this initiative, including Chicago, New York, and Miami. The McCormick Place Lakeside Center’s bird strike prevention efforts serve as a reminder of the importance of balancing human activity with the protection of wildlife. By implementing measures that reduce the risk of bird collisions, we can contribute to the conservation of avian populations and ensure the harmonious coexistence of nature and urban environments.Chicago Exhibition Center Modifies Windows to Prevent Bird Strikes The Chicago Exhibition Center is taking steps to prevent bird strikes after a massive kill last year. In October 2021, hundreds of birds were killed when they flew into the building’s windows. The center is replacing the clear glass windows with a new type of glass that is less reflective and more visible to birds. The new glass has a patterned design that helps birds see the windows and avoid flying into them. The modified windows will be installed in phases over the next year. The center expects to have all of the new windows in place by the end of 2023. In addition to the new windows, the center is also working to reduce the number of birds that are attracted to the building. This includes installing bird deterrents, such as netting and spikes, and planting vegetation that is not attractive to birds. The center’s efforts to prevent bird strikes are part of a larger effort by the city of Chicago to make its buildings more bird-friendly. In 2019, the city passed an ordinance requiring new buildings to use bird-friendly design elements, such as non-reflective glass and bird deterrents. By taking steps to prevent bird strikes, the Chicago Exhibition Center is helping to protect the city’s bird population and reduce the risk of future bird kills.