Adrienn Vincze's Image

Adrienn Vincze (Hungary) highlights an intricate window imprint left behind by a pigeon.

Adrienn was fascinated with the print caused by a pigeon crashing into a window. Placing black card over the feather dust on the outside of the pane, she used natural light to transform the imprint into a starry universe.

The outlines of the imprint were made from the cells surrounding growing feathers as well as the brittle tips of certain feathers, particularly those on the chest.

Worldwide, more than a billion birds collide with windows each year. Even if the bird’s neck doesn’t break, it may succumb to its injuries.

At night, migrating birds crash into glass because they’re drawn to artificial lights. In the day, collisions are mainly the result of birds seeing the reflections of vegetation or the sky, which make it look as though there’s a way through. In some cases, they even mistake their own reflections for a rival and crash as they try to drive it off.

How you can help

• Birds don't understand that glass is a barrier and can sometimes crash into it, especially if it's reflecting the sky or nearby greenery. To help, place screens, nets, one-way transparent film or stickers on your windows so that birds can see them.
• If you find a bird that's flown into a window, it might be concussed or have internal injuries. Move it to a dark, safe place and if it hasn't recovered within an hour but is still alive, contact a wildlife rescue, the RSPCA if you’re in the UK, or a vet.
• If a bird can see a mirror through your windows or patio doors, it might confuse the reflection as a way through. Move your mirror to a different place if you can.