A team of researchers has documented alarming instances of bird collisions with glass-fronted buildings in the Nilgiris, revealing how reflective architecture poses a growing threat to avian biodiversity in the region. Conducted across Forestdale and Coonoor, the study recorded 35 incidents involving 22 bird species from 15 families, resulting in 16 deaths and 18 injuries.
The study, titled “Glass Traps: Investigating Bird Mortality at Glass-Fronted Buildings in the Nilgiris,” was carried out between January and December 2024 by researchers N. Moinudheen, K. Rishi, A. Abinesh, Azad Kamil, Yeshwanth Kumar, E. Vignesh, and A. Samson, and published in the Ornis Hungarica journal on Friday.
Among the affected species, the Indian blue robin (Luscinia brunnea) recorded the highest number of collisions, followed by the Greenish warbler (Phylloscopus trochiloides), Kashmir flycatcher (Ficedula subrubra), and Grey wagtail (Motacilla cinerea). Resident species such as the White-cheeked barbet (Megalaima viridis) Spotted dove (Spilopelia chinensis) were also among the most frequently injured or killed, alongside Brown wood owl Common barn owl Hill swallow and Red-whiskered bulbul.
The research was conducted around commercial buildings bordered by gardens and forests, with surrounding landscapes including semi-evergreen forests, sholas, and tea plantations. Researchers observed that reflective glass surfaces were the main factor increasing collision risks, as birds often mistake reflections of vegetation and sky for real habitats.
Lead researcher N. Moinudheen said the findings expose an underreported conservation issue in India. “Despite rising global concern over bird-window collisions, research on this subject in India remains scarce. Our study, the first of its kind in South India, shows that building architecture, especially glass facades, plays a critical role in bird fatalities. Collisions peaked during winter, indicating seasonal vulnerability,” he explained.
Researcher A. Samson highlighted that urbanisation and habitat fragmentation are worsening the problem. “Resident birds like the White-cheeked barbet and Spotted dove face more collisions because of their year-round presence near human structures. These incidents represent an emerging conservation concern that needs urgent attention,” he said.
To reduce the threat, the team has urged building owners and authorities to adopt bird-safe designs. “Installing UV-reflective films, using patterned or frosted glass, and moving vegetation away from reflective surfaces can make a big difference,” said researcher K. Rishi. “Birds can see ultraviolet light, so UV-reflective films such as BirdShades make glass visible to them without affecting human visibility.”
Researcher Azad Kamil called for broader investigations into the issue. “We recorded 16 bird deaths in just two areas. The actual number across the Nilgiris could be far higher. It’s time for the forest department to conduct a comprehensive study to understand the full scale of the problem,” he said.
The findings underline a growing conflict between modern architecture and wildlife, urging planners and citizens to ensure that the region’s development does not come at the cost of its biodiversity.