Javits Center: From Bird Hazard to Green Oasis on a Manhattan Rooftop

The Javits Center is New York City’s largest convention complex, hosting major annual events such as the New York International Auto Show, Comic Con, The Armory Show (one of the leading art fairs in the United States), and the Fancy Food Show.

A Glass Trap for Birds

For many years, however, the building posed a serious environmental problem — its transparent walls proved deadly for birds.

With over 300,000 square meters of its surface made from glass, the Javits Center was practically invisible to birds in flight, leading to frequent and often fatal collisions. On some mornings, the ground outside the main entrance could be littered with bird carcasses just as a major event was set to open.

After consultations with ornithologists and urban planners, a solution was found: all glass panels were covered with a special film patterned with black dots, easily visible to birds but barely noticeable to people.

This simple measure reduced bird fatalities by 95%. The Javits Center’s approach is now considered one of the most successful case studies in the global effort to address the “birds vs. skyscrapers” challenge.

A Rooftop Wildlife Sanctuary

The Javits Center’s relationship with birds didn’t end with its glass retrofit. Its roof — one of the largest in New York State — has become a key stopover for many species, where they nest, raise chicks, and even establish multi-generational colonies.

This transformation was made possible by creating a green roof:

Covered with a hardy grass species suited for urban conditions.
Summer temperatures are about 20°C cooler than on traditional black rooftops.
Up to 80% of rainwater is collected, filtered, and reused.
Solar panels generate up to 10% of the building’s electricity needs.

Orchard, Beehives, and an Urban Farm

The green roof isn’t just grass. Around 30 apple trees make it the largest rooftop orchard in the world.

There are also nine beehives, each home to up to 100,000 bees. While the honey isn’t sold, it is used in dishes served at the center’s café.

Additionally, rooftop garden beds yield vegetables, berries, and gourds — including zucchini, pumpkins, raspberries, and tomatoes. The “urban farm” produces about 18 tons of fresh food annually, with a significant portion donated to local charities.