Will County Gazette

Bird collisions with windows have become a notable issue, especially along migration corridors such as those in Chicago. In October 2023, the problem received significant attention after nearly 1,000 birds collided with McCormick Place in one night, an event documented by the Field Museum. This incident prompted efforts to increase public awareness and implement protective measures for migratory songbirds.

Artist Holly Greenberg has since launched "Bird Collisions in the Anthropocene," a community art project that aims to represent each of the 10,836 birds killed by window strikes in Chicago during that year. The initiative involves creating fabric replicas from upcycled or donated materials, which will be displayed as a carpet spanning the length of a football field. An interactive interface will allow visitors to identify their individual contributions.

In Park Forest, Greenberg's pop-up workshops took place at the Park Forest Public Library in July and August. These events were held in collaboration with Carrie Malfeo, Park Forest Sustainability Coordinator. Residents were invited to craft bird replicas and learn about methods to reduce window collisions both at home and in businesses.

Malfeo explained that bird-window collisions are not limited to urban centers but can also happen in suburban neighborhoods like Park Forest. She said: “Walk around your building and look for reflected trees or plants in your windows.” Malfeo added that if someone has heard a bird hit their glass before, it is important to take preventive steps.

The workshops demonstrated two practical solutions: applying white acrylic dots on window exteriors in a two-inch grid pattern or hanging vertical strings at similar intervals. Both techniques help make glass visible to birds and reduce collision risk.

Malfeo also highlighted the sustainability aspect of the project—using scraps, cardboard, and everyday household items for crafting—which encourages broader community participation without extra expenses.

Through these workshops, Park Forest residents joined global participants by contributing fabric birds while learning actionable ways to protect migrating species from window strikes. The effort serves both as a tribute to lost wildlife and as an educational campaign encouraging local action.