National Football League

Clear film may rescue birds from Vikings glass

Published Dec. 10, 2014 7:31 p.m. ET

foxsports

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) A window film designed by 3M Co. could wind up helping prevent bird deaths from the Minnesota Vikings' new glass-heavy stadium.

The team's $1 billion stadium due to open in 2016 depends on vast windows to create an airy feeling. But bird lovers have asked the team to change out clear glass with ''fritted'' glass that they say is safer for birds.

The Vikings have resisted, saying they don't want to obscure sunlight. But Vice President Lester Bagley told the Star Tribune (http://strib.mn/1un6u8V ) the team is open to testing the clear film.

Michele Kelm-Helgen, chairwoman of the authority overseeing stadium construction, said such a study might start during bird migration season in various locations in Minnesota. The stadium would be included in tests after it is built.