Developing an App to Inform Community-Led Mitigation of Bird-Window Collisions

Student Researchers (2023)

Ethan Stewart '25, Major: Biology, Major: Environmental Sustainability (2023)

Isabella Ortiz-Miller '23, Major: Biology, Major: Environmental Science and Policy (2022)

Hannah Dahl '23, Major: Biology (2021)

Faculty Mentor

Dr. John Swaddle

Project Description

Nearly three billion birds have died in North America since 1970 as a result of window collisions, highlighting the urgent need for widespread mitigation to protect bird populations in the face of rapid development and urbanization. Fortunately, low-cost glass treatments and nighttime light reduction significantly decrease the likelihood of birds colliding with glass, but there is a lack of awareness and implementation of these mitigation approaches.

To increase community mitigation of bird-window collisions, William & 玛丽 students are working with US Fish and Wildlife Service to develop a user-focused app that inspires and facilitates community-led mitigation of window collisions needed to conserve bird populations. The app engages users in the process of identifying mitigation strategies that align with the building they identify as a problem and cultivates community of citizens interested in bird conservation. 

Project ID - Format

21-011-21 - CRP Year
21-011-22 - CRP Year
21-011-23 - CRP Year