Krasnoyarsk Pillars National Park Seeks New Ways to Protect Birds from Glass Collisions

The press service of the Krasnoyarsk Pillars National Park has announced a new research project aimed at assessing the impact of large recreational facilities on avian fauna. The study highlights the global issue of birds colliding with glass buildings, a problem not limited to urban areas but also prevalent in protected natural areas.

As ecotourism has grown in popularity, the number of buildings for exhibitions, education, and visitor recreation has increased within protected natural areas. In the past ten years alone, the Krasnoyarsk Pillars has constructed two scientific and educational centers, a tourist and service center, a research station, tourist cabins, and other structures with glass.

Despite the use of special bird-safe decals on all windows and glass surfaces within the park, these measures have proven insufficient. Over the past four months, more than ten birds have been found dead after colliding with glass within the park boundaries. Additionally, numerous instances of non-fatal collisions have been recorded. Victims typically include hazel grouses, thrushes, crossbills, and even small raptors. These incidents are particularly prevalent in areas where migratory bird paths intersect.

To address this issue, the park staff has introduced experimental methods. Special nets have been installed on some structures at the Narym Scientific and Educational Complex and the Eastern Entrance. A month after installation, inspections revealed that while collisions still occurred, as evidenced by deformations in the nets, no dead birds were found.

The park will continue to monitor the protective properties of these structures. If the results are positive, nets will be installed on all park buildings and recommended for use in other protected natural areas.