In the Spring 2015 issue of Modern Magazine, Editor Beth Dunlop made an unexpected plea to architects. Stating, “ I love good architecture. I’ve spent my professional life advocating for good architecture. But when you get down to it, I’d rather wake up many a morning to Warbles and song than look at another daring and sculptural all-glass tower. I’d rather have some of those billion song birds back.” Dunlop reveals that one billion migratory birds die every year from running into glass buildings. Birds are unable to identify glass as a barrier that they cannot pass, making Dunlop argue that true green architecture considers the birds.
Some of the threatening buildings, as you can see the glass reflects a clear sky and clouds.
Images courtesy of Exploring the world with your kids.
This graphic is part of a Bird Safety Guidelines packet put together by the New York Audubon.
Image courtesy of the New York Audubon.