Stupid grey wagtail going to kill himself!

[werdnal]

Since last week we've had a Grey Wagtail who has become obsessed with our windows. I first heard a noise upstairs on Friday, and went into our spare room to find him hurling himself at the glass. There was even blood spattered on it. We have no curtains in that room, so I've put some old pillows against the inside of the window and that seems to have detered him from there.

Saturday morning at 6.00am, he started on our bedroom window. I drew the curtains over and that put him off there. Now he's having a go at the living room. He's not being quite so violent about it now (no more blood), but he's here every 10 minutes or so - I keep thinking there is someone knocking at the door! I can't leave the curtains drawn all over the house all day, but I'm afraid he's going to hurt himself - or knock himself out and the cat will get him.

There was a pair of wagtails here in the spring, so not sure if this is one of them, or a youngster. Is he attacking his reflection? Surely he shouldn't be territorial this time of the year? Any suggestion on how to put him off?

[Kev-B]

Hi Werdnal ..

I've heard of similar behaviour in Robins .. attacking their own reflection in car wing mirrors .. but never in Grey Wagtails ..

You could try some of those self-adhesive stickers (usually a Raptor silhouette) designed to deter birds from flying into Patio doors .. I think the RSPB sell them via their online shop ..

Bye for now ..

Kev ..