A fascinating survey reveals a surprising correlation between a car's color and the frequency of bird droppings it accumulates. According to a recent U.S. study, brown cars were the undisputed "primary target" for birds, followed closely by red and black vehicles. This finding overturns common assumptions and highlights the often-underestimated visual perception of our avian neighbors.

Brown Cars Bear the Brunt of Bird Attacks 

According to a survey conducted by Allens Factory Outlet, a U.S. garage and vehicle storage specialist, involving 1,000 vehicle owners, brown cars were found to suffer the most from bird excrement. Following the seemingly unlucky brown hue, red, black, and blue vehicles experienced the highest rates of soiling. Conversely, cars painted in lighter colors—white, silver, and gray—remained relatively cleaner.

Experts suggest this phenomenon is deeply rooted in avian biology. Birds possess a superior color perception range compared to humans, capable of seeing into the ultraviolet (UV) spectrum. While the human eye has three types of cone cells (color-sensing cells), birds have an additional type, allowing them to perceive color contrasts far more intensely. This heightened color sensitivity may explain why certain colors, like brown and red, are disproportionately targeted.

Reflections and Size Also Play a Role 

Beyond color, other factors such as the vehicle's shape and reflectivity contribute to the risk. Experts note that larger vehicles with broader surface areas, such as pickup trucks, present a greater target for droppings.

Moreover, a car's shininess can provoke an aggressive response. Birds are known to mistake their own reflection in highly polished surfaces or side mirrors for a rival. This misidentification can lead to aggressive pecking and, consequently, an increased likelihood of leaving droppings on the perceived competitor. Reports of birds lingering near reflective surfaces and leaving droppings are common.

However, it is important to note a potential limitation of the study. Automotive news outlet CarBuzz suggests that since the survey relied on self-reported data, the reported frequency of droppings on white or silver cars might be underestimated simply because the droppings are less visible on lighter surfaces.

Droppings Pose Serious Threat: Immediate Removal Essential 

Bird excrement is more than just a nuisance; it poses a genuine threat to a vehicle's paintwork. The acidic nature of the droppings can quickly etch and corrode the clear coat and underlying paint, especially when baked on by the sun.

In the U.S., approximately one in four drivers spends about $500 (around 700,000 KRW) annually on washing and repairing damage caused by bird droppings. Alarmingly, one in ten drivers admitted to experiencing permanent paint damage.

Experts strongly advise drivers to remove droppings as soon as possible. Instead of immediately wiping or scrubbing, the contaminated area should be sufficiently soaked with a dedicated car cleaner. If a specialized cleaner is unavailable, using clean water to thoroughly wet the area and gently blot the waste away is a safer alternative, mitigating the risk of scratching the paint during removal.