indigo bunting obsession with my window - help! (1 Viewer)

[striving2Bzen]

Hi All - I have an indigo bunting that is in day 3 of an obsession with my living room window. He walks the ledge tweeting up a storm, flys up and along glass... He does this all day! On the first day I was thrilled, day 2 i was a bit puzzled and today i am worried (he is expending a ton of energy) and wondering how to convince him to move on. I put an object on the ledge thinking it might deter him and he simply knocked it down unfazed. The cat is continually batting at him through the window and he doesn't budge. The dog has also charged him at the window (yesterday several times) and he just continues his behaviour. I've attached a couple of pics. Suggestions would be most welcome!

 

[Bird_Bill]

Hello 'Bzen, welcome to the forum.
Reads as if the bunting perceives itself as an adversary, by seeing its reflection. At times, birds will interpret the transparent window as a pathway. As you say, the interaction can induce biological stress that is not desirable. Will subside in a few weeks, but the stress does accumulate regardless.

Below are some links with ideas like decals, locating feeders, covers that bounce them off, et cetera.

Flap-Canada, Tips & Techniques

RSPB advice, Birds & Windows

Cornell bird lab, Keeping Birds Safe Around Windows

 

[striving2Bzen]

thank so much for links BBill - i'll have a look. I've had male red throated humming birds dance with their reflection - usually later in the summer - but this is the first time I've had a bird become fixated.
Thankfully the bunting has moved on - looks like he found a mate and the two of them are spending a lot of time zipping around after each other... I'm thankful he has a distraction!
Thanks again for your help!