37th Annual Student Research Conference
Characterizing Window Strikes at Truman State University to Inform Conservation Efforts
Matthew Gilley* and Colin Barry
Dr. Joanna Hubbard and Dr. Vayujeet Gokhale, Faculty Mentors
Window collisions are a leading contributor to human-caused mortality in birds; however, the prevalence of window strikes in the Mississippi Flyway is not fully understood. Many birds are unable to perceive glass as a barrier due to its reflective qualities, which is further exacerbated by nearby feeders or foliage. Excess artificial light that escapes from windows may also attract nocturnal migrants that use light as a tool for navigation. Since February 2023, we have conducted regular carcass surveys at academic buildings on the campus of Truman State University to understand the species that are impacted by strikes and the buildings that contribute most to strikes. These results will ultimately inform a campus-wide mitigation plan aimed at improving Truman State University’s wildlife stewardship. We have observed window strike mortality in vulnerable species (e.g., chimney swift, Chaetura pelagica), thus mitigation strategies that reduce window strikes on campus will improve our conservation efforts.
Keywords: Ornithology, Conservation, Light Pollution, Window Strikes, Urban Ecology
Topic(s):Biology
Environmental Studies
Presentation Type: Oral Presentation
Session: 307-3
Location: MG 1000
Time: 1:15