At McCormick Place in Chicago, a simple solution is making a world of difference for migrating birds. After installing a bird-friendly glass treatment made of small, opaque dots, the building saw a dramatic 95% drop in window collisions during the fall migration season. Located along a major flyway, the site once posed a serious challenge for birds — but now, thanks to this smart upgrade, they’re able to spot the glass and safely change course. Experts at the Field Museum say they’ve even observed birds pulling up or veering away mid-flight, a hopeful sign that the intervention is working as intended.
The success of the project is now inspiring others. The Illinois-funded effort is being looked at as a model for bird-safe design, with cities and conservation groups taking notice. Site managers are also reviewing more areas to expand the protective coating, including a nearby pedestrian bridge. With its skyline becoming friendlier to feathered visitors, Chicago is proving that small design changes can have a huge impact — and that thoughtful action can help wildlife thrive in urban spaces.