At the Museum Folkwang in Essen, an existing large glass facade was retrofitted with bird protection markings. The area in question is approximately 20 m long and 5 m high and frames the entrance area as a so-called climate air lock. Due to its open design, birds find it difficult to perceive it as a barrier. It is possible for the animals to collide with the glass both coming from the street and from the inside.
The aim of the retrofit was to find a solution that was clearly visible to birds but did not detract from the design of the facade.
The product Seen dual shiny 9/90 mm was chosen. These markings reflect on both sides and are therefore visible from different directions – without the need for double foiling.
Protecfolien
After implementation on the climate air lock, other window areas of the museum were also fitted with the same markings. The chosen system ensures a uniform appearance across all facades while reducing installation costs.
Effectiveness and implementation
The markings consist of 9 mm dots spaced 90 mm apart (centre to centre). They cover only 0.8% of the glass surface. Thanks to the aluminium coating on both sides, they are clearly visible to birds. Their effectiveness has been scientifically confirmed by flight tunnel tests conducted by the Hohenau-Ringelsdorf Biological Station: in more than 90% of cases, birds recognize the marked glass surfaces and avoid them.
The specialist company Protecfolien, which specializes in glass foiling and regularly works with Seen, was responsible for the professional application of the markings. The work was carried out in close consultation with the museum and taking into account the architectural requirements.
