When passionate citizens come together, change is not only possible, it is inevitable. Across the state, we are witnessing communities and partners come together to tackle the urgent issue of bird collisions, taking action to reduce their impact. 

A recent study revealed that bird collision deaths are far worse than we previously thought, with an estimated one billion birds dying annually in the U.S. These fatalities often occur when birds, disoriented by artificial light at night or tricked by reflective and transparent glass, collide with buildings. Traveling at speeds of up to 30 mph, the fatality rate of these collisions is nearly 50%. 

That’s why we commend the citizens and community leaders who are stepping up to make a real difference in their neighborhoods. One example is in Austin, where the City Council passed a Resolution directing the City Manager to review the building code and recommend updates to incorporate bird-friendly building practices. 

Travis Audubon, deeply concerned about the rapid development in Austin—particularly in the areas extending towards the Hill Country—took the initiative to engage with city boards and commissions about bird-friendly design. By bringing in Heidi Trudell, a technical adviser with Guardian Glass, they were able to make a compelling case to the Design Commission and the Commissions on Development and the Environment. 

“Every building that we make bird-safe is literally, tangibly saving dozens to hundreds of birds per building per year,” Trudell told the Design Commission. “With a little bit of foresight, we can actually do something about bird conservation.” 

Thanks to the dedication of local citizens and advocates who wrote letters in support of the Resolution, we hope to see a recommendation from the City Manager this Spring.

Inspired by Austin’s efforts, community leaders in Dallas are pursuing a similar strategy for the $7 billion remodel of the Kay Bailey Hutchinson Convention Center. This major project has the potential to showcase innovation on a grand scale, not only benefiting people but also protecting wildlife, setting a powerful example for convention centers across the country. 

When communities come together with a shared purpose, meaningful change is possible. The progress made in Austin and Dallas offers hope that, with continued collaboration and commitment, we can reduce bird collisions and create built environments that are safer for wildlife.