The severity of the injuries sustained by a bird that hits a window depends on a number of factors, including the size and speed of the bird, the type of glass, and the angle of impact. Larger birds tend to suffer more severe injuries than smaller birds, and birds that hit windows at high speeds are more likely to be injured or killed than birds that hit windows at lower speeds. Tempered glass (safety glass) is less likely to cause serious injuries than regular glass, because it breaks into small, blunt pieces instead of sharp shards. And birds that hit windows at an angle are more likely to suffer from skull fractures than birds that hit windows head-on.
If you find a bird that has hit a window, it is important to take the following steps:
* Move the bird to a safe location away from the window.
* If the bird is unconscious, gently place it on its side so that it can breathe more easily.
* Cover the bird with a cloth to help it stay warm.
* Contact a wildlife rehabilitator or veterinarian for assistance.
If the bird is not seriously injured, it may be released back into the wild after a few days of care. However, birds that have suffered from head trauma or other serious injuries may need to be kept in captivity for a longer period of time.