**This is a new VIP starting in Spring 2026.**
What is the ambitious goal of this project?
Every year across the U.S., more than one billion birds die from colliding with building windows, and Boise is no exception. This VIP, originally started as a research project in Spring 2024, will study buildings around Boise State’s campus that have high numbers of bird window strikes.
The goal of this research is to determine which buildings (and which windows in particular) are most likely to be hit by migrating songbirds, and ask what mitigation strategies will be most effective. This project uses a multidisciplinary approach and there are opportunities for students with artistic and creative abilities to help with both window mitigation designs and outreach materials.
Students will have the opportunity to gain experience not only with field research in an urban setting but with coordination and communication in a professional/research setting, team leadership, community outreach, data entry and analysis, and much more! This project also has the potential to be long-term with many different research avenues branching from it.
Experience Gained
- Data collection using standardized bird collision survey protocols
- Field mapping and geolocation of collision sites
- Identification of local bird species and collision patterns
- Scientific communication and community outreach
- Collaboration with artists and facilities staff to implement bird-safe solutions
- Experience contributing to a real-world conservation solution
- Mentorship from experienced researchers and returning VIP students
Opportunities for multi-semester training are available.
Methodologies and/or Technologies used to achieve project goals
- fieldwork
- quantitative research methods
Preferred Preparation
No preparation needed for 200 level.
At the 400 level, completion of the 200 level VIP on the same project or similar prior experience. 400 level students will complete an additional independent research project.
Majors or Interests Needed
- Biological Sciences
- Environmental Studies Program
VIP Coach Information
Heidi W. Carlisle is the Education Director at the Intermountain Bird Observatory. You can reach her at HeidiWare@boisestate.edu
Course Information
Launching Spring 2026
VIP 200, VIP 400 or VIP 500
Full semester course.
Summer and Fall semesters available. 1 credit (40 hours)
Team meetings: Flexible meeting schedule, with morning surveys on Boise State campus required at least 1x per week (9 am to 12 pm)
Interested in joining this team?
For more information and to request a permission number to register contact Heidi Carlisle at HeidiWare@boisestate.edu OR complete this interest form and we will follow up with you. Check out this page for tips on contacting a professor.
To register, search by Subject: Vertically Integrated Projects, read the project description to find the right section of VIP 200, 400, or 500.
Here are instructions for using permission numbers Add with a permission number