Protecting birds together - 5 simple tips

With a few targeted measures, everyone can make a valuable contribution to bird conservation.

Birds enrich our environment with their song and contribute to ecological balance. However, many species are threatened by environmental changes, food shortages, and direct threats. With a few targeted measures, everyone can make a valuable contribution to bird conservation. Here are five effective steps to help protect our feathered friends:

1. Preserve and protect natural habitats

Protecting forests, meadows, and wetlands is essential for the survival of many bird species. Many initiatives are committed to rehabilitating areas or supporting the preservation of habitats. At the Forest Academy, we initiated the UrwaldProject, in which we protect old deciduous forests in Germany and provide refuge for bird species. You can become a forest protector for as little as one square meter. Further information about the UrwaldProject can be found here:

To the jungle project

2. Glass as a deadly danger – Preventing bird strikes

Millions of birds die in Germany every year from collisions with glass facades and windows (1). A study from North America even shows that more than a billion birds die there annually from collisions with window panes (2). Glass reflects the surroundings or is invisible to birds, causing them to fly into it without stopping. A simple and effective measure is bird protection markings on windows. The SEEN Elements developed by SEEN AG are special marking dots that are clearly visible to birds but barely impede visibility for people. These small dots can prevent over 90% of collisions and are a sustainable solution for private households and businesses.

On bird protection of lakes*

3. Raise awareness and inspire others

Experiencing nature and raising awareness are crucial factors in bird conservation. The more people appreciate species and are informed about threats and conservation measures, the greater our impact. Join us in discovering the secrets of birdlife and our forests and share your experiences with friends and family. Getting involved in local conservation projects also strengthens your connection to nature and helps directly on the ground. Even small changes in everyday life can make a big difference.

About the experiences at the Forest Academy

4. Design bird-friendly gardens

A natural garden provides important habitats not only for birds, but also for many other species. Native shrubs and trees such as hawthorn, blackthorn, and rowan provide important feeding and nesting sites. Reducing overgrown and structurally rich gardens, avoiding pesticides, and installing nesting boxes all help to give these species more space.

More tips for making your garden bird-friendly

5. Support year-round feeding

In summer and winter, we can support some species with additional food and water. Natural organic feed mixes and fat-based suet balls are particularly suitable. Regular cleaning of feeding stations is important to prevent disease. A small pond or birdbath are also valuable sources of water, especially in the hot summer months. Beautiful birdwatching opportunities are especially possible at feeding and watering stations, a great experience for children too!

Learn why year-round bird feeding makes sense

Conclusion

You can make a quick and easy contribution to better protecting birds and preserving their habitats. Whether through bird-friendly gardens, the use of bird markers, or active conservation efforts – every measure counts. Together we can preserve biodiversity and create a secure future for ourselves and our feathered companions.

Sources

(1) Calculation of bird deaths on window panes in Germany:
LAG VSW – STATE WORKING GROUP OF BIRD CONSERVATORIES (2017): The potential extent of bird strikes on glass surfaces in Germany – an estimate. – Reports on Bird Conservation 53/54: 63–67.

(2) Study on bird deaths on window panes in North America:
Kornreich A, Partridge D, Youngblood M, Parkins K (2024) Rehabilitation outcomes of bird-building collision victims in the Northeastern United States. PLoS ONE 19(8): e0306362. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0306362