The way humans perceive the reflection of trees or prairies in a window is different from a bird. To a bird, these reflections register as a continuation in their environment, that is, they are unable to differentiate between the distorted image of a reflection versus the glass of a window. Windows are not perceived as barriers, which results in full-speed collisions. Some birds also exhibit territorial aggression when they see their own reflection. They will attack their reflection thinking it is a competitor and injure themselves in the process. This is common for cardinals, robins, blue jays, and turkeys.
Simple measures, such as closing blinds or curtains, can break up the illusion of open space. Another option is to place feeders within 1.5 feet of windows or glass, which can prevent birds from building momentum that would injure them. Having screens over windows provides a visual barrier and a cushion in case of a strike.
Non-toxic tempera paint can be used to create patterns and artwork that achieve the same effect as pricier films and tapes. Tempera paint is easy to remove and change. Tape, window decals, post-it notes and soap can be used to create a barrier to birds. These methods may require more upkeep to keep them performing as needed. Be sure to follow the 2-inch x 2-inch vertical and horizontal spacing guidelines for the most effective results. The larger the barriers, the better! Applying visible patterns to the exterior of the glass will produce the best effects. Patterns must be spaced this way to appear as solid objects with adjacent spaces that the birds perceive to be too small to fly through.
To find more information about options and installation instructions, visit Prevent Birds Hitting Windows | CollidEscape
Preservation Parks features a compost bin at Deer Haven Park and compost piles at Gallant Farm. We hope to inspire you to try composting at home. On your next visit to Deer Haven Park or Gallant Farm, take a moment to check out the dark, crumbly, earthy-smelling soil building in the compost piles. Food waste from fieldtrips, programs, events, and rentals all end up in the compost bin instead of bagged and taken to the landfill.
The aviary at Deer Haven Park, though our partnership with Ohio Nature Education, is operated without producing waste. Staff and volunteers use compostable gloves and bags while providing care to reduce items heading to the landfill. Food scraps not eaten by the birds after recording go into composting.
When purchasing compostable items at the store, make sure to do your research and look for the correct certifications. You want it to be “BACKYARD” or “HOME OK” or purchase items that are made from 100% natural materials like cotton, hemp, and wood. Certain plastics that claim to be biodegradable can only be broken down in an industrial compost facility, which is not a service available in central Ohio.
Learn more about composting at your house by clicking on the US EPA Composting at Home website. Composting At Home | US EPA.
Don’t have a way to compost at home? Now you don’t have to have an outdoor space to prevent biodegradable items from entering the landfill. Check out the link below to see how you can simply fill a bucket!
Composting is nature’s way of recycling. It is the process of organic material decomposition, and the resulting substance is called compost. Gardens benefit from the addition of compost because it supplies the nutrients plants need. It allows our food scraps and yard trim to decompose and transform into nutrient-rich soil or mulch. It is one of the most powerful actions we can take to reduce our trash, address climate change, and build healthy soil.
The Park District offers recycling in all our facilities. If you see a designated recycling receptacle in the park, you can recycle the items accepted by Rumpke. Follow the instructions on the receptacle or visit the Rumpke website for more detailed information.
Acceptable Items for Recycling | Rumpke
Preservation Parks is excited to introduce a new external waste and recycling unit at Shale Hollow Park. The goal is to offer this service to decrease the number of recyclables going to the landfill and reduce contamination. The new until is wildlife proof and will prevent any animal from interacting with trash. (picture of unit once installed)
STOP BEFORE YOU TOSS: Other recycling opportunities!
Native plants have developed naturally, without human introduction. They are adapted to the local climate, soil conditions, and other native flora and fauna in that area. Native wildlife rely on native plants for their survival by means of food sources and shelter.
Preservation Parks features three native plant gardens at Deer Haven Park, Shale Hollow Park, and Hogback Ridge Park. Each garden offers diverse native Ohio species including flowers, shrubs, trees, and vines. Take a walk through the gardens and learn about what plants you can incorporate at home. Installing a native plant garden at home is a great way to support local wildlife.
Lawns cover over 40 million acres of the United States and are great places to relax, play and enjoy the outdoors. However, they are comprised of non-native grasses that require fertilizers, herbicides, and excess water to thrive. Mowing lawns accounts for 5% of our country’s air pollution, contributing to carbon emissions. In addition to the excess resources required to maintain lawns, they also serve as a time sink as the average American spends approximately 70 hours per year on lawn care.
Lawns are ecological dead zones; they are comprised of a monoculture of turf grass. Garden beds tend to be planted with non-native ornamental trees, shrubs, and flowers that contribute very little to our native fauna. Our native animal populations have evolved with the plants that are native to their region, they depend on these plants to survive.
Let’s transform our lawns into a better habitat for wildlife and people!
Reduce the amount of lawn in your yard
Plant native trees, shrubs, and flowers. Diversity is key!
Educate yourself about invasive plants.
Avoid chemical applications.
Leave the Leaves!
Know your homeowners’ association policies.
Native plants have developed naturally, without human introduction. They are adapted to the local climate, soil conditions, and other native flora and fauna in that area. Native wildlife rely on native plants for their survival by means of food sources and shelter.
MISSION: To protect and conserve the natural and historic features of Delaware County and to inspire outdoor exploration and learning.
VISION: To inspire the care of nature and community for a sustainable future.
