Woodcocks are vulnerable to window strikes during migration

American woodcocks are frequently injured or killed by window collisions during seasonal migrations in some U.S. cities, and the Bird Center of Michigan is documenting cases in Detroit and seeking reports from the public.

American woodcocks are striking glass during seasonal migrations and are frequently injured or killed in some urban areas. Wildlife officials and rehabilitators report a noticeable number of collision cases, and a Saline-based Bird Center in Michigan has focused on incidents coming from downtown Detroit. The center is documenting locations and asking for reports to better understand where collisions occur. Key points: - Window collisions are reported as a common cause of injury or death for American woodcocks during spring and fall migration, with the species among the top five collision victims in cities such as Philadelphia and Baltimore. - The Bird Center of Michigan said 73% of the woodcocks it received from Detroit in recent years were reported from the Campus Martius area downtown. - Officials report that woodcocks migrate at night and can become disoriented by urban lighting, which contributes to collisions with glass buildings. - The Bird Center is collecting reports and has asked people to text a photo, the county location and a brief description to 734-761-9640; those local to Detroit can also email [email protected] about volunteering or observed incidents. Summary: Urban glass is resulting in repeated woodcock injuries during migration, prompting local rehabilitators to track and document collision locations. The Bird Center plans to use collected data to discuss possible measures with building owners, such as lights-out initiatives during peak migration; further outcomes are undetermined at this time.