Ottawa: Prevent Urban Bird Deaths and Adopt a Bird Strategy

Recently two thirds of a flock of migrating birds, beautiful Bohemian waxwings, were needlessly killed in Ottawa. The flock, as it passed through the city, flew into the city hall's glass walkway, killing or injuring 40 of the 60 bird flock. This is a horrific loss and more so because it is not the first time this has happened in Ottawa at this precise walkway. As well, Safewings Ottawa estimates that the number of birds that die of collision in the city of Ottawa is around one million a year!

The good news is that these bird deaths are preventable. There are wonderful preventative measures that protect birds from unnecessary collision deaths. Other cities across North America have implemented Bird Strategies that work at protecting birds. Ottawa needs to implement such a strategy.

A Bird Strategy in Ottawa must include mandatory window deterrents in all public and commercial buildings to prevent bird collisions. This simple measure will go far in preventing bird death. As birds are also affected intensely by light pollution, the Strategy must include measures such as smart street lights and buildings turning off their lights at night in order to reduce the level of light pollution in the city.

Sign today to hold Ottawa accountable to an important wildlife population by creating a strong Bird Strategy. By signing today you are committing to the long term healthy of urban birds.