Bird Deaths Spark Action at University of Cincinnati

A University of Cincinnati ornithologist reported a significant incident where over 50 birds were found dead in just one day after colliding with windows on campus in September. He, along with student activists, emphasized the need for urgent action regarding this “mass mortality” situation during a recent rally.

Ronald Canterbury, who has managed the University of California’s bird banding program for many years, mentioned that while students might typically discover around eight deceased birds on their way to class, he encountered at least 50 dead birds daily during this period. This alarming figure led to protests and a petition urging the university to reinforce its buildings to prevent further strikes. The University of California acknowledged it is “working on a comprehensive approach,” noting that some bird-safe measures have already been implemented in the renovated former chemistry building.

“They are signaling that something is amiss,” Canterbury remarked. “Experts like myself are raising the alarm. Yet, it seems not enough people are responding.”

Canterbury suggested that a combination of drought and subsequent heavy rains might have lured migratory birds to navigate through the reflective glass corridors, which can create a confusing environment. He expressed a desire for the University of California to enhance measures to prevent these crashes, especially since upgrades in Old Chem have reportedly decreased fatalities from around 20 to four.

Students from the Queer Birders of Cincinnati organized a rally on campus recently, promoting a petition named “Make Buildings Safe for Migratory Birds on the University of Cincinnati Campus.”

This issue is not isolated to just one institution. A study by the National Audubon Society revealed that over 1 billion birds die annually in the U.S. due to collisions with buildings. Experts argue that many of these deaths could be avoided with the use of patterned glass, outdoor screens, and dim lighting policies.

In recent months, research surrounding bird-safe glass options has emerged from the University of California. For more than a decade, professors and students in Cincinnati have been collecting data on fatal window strikes. Activists advocate for universities to implement such protective measures on other high-risk buildings as well.