The question of whether birds are commonly attracted to certain colors of urban outdoor furniture is intriguing and touches on avian vision, behavior, and urban ecology. While not universally true for all species, evidence suggests that color can indeed influence bird activity around human-made structures.
Birds perceive color differently from humans. Many species see a broader spectrum, including ultraviolet light. This means the colors we choose for benches, tables, or railings may appear differently—and sometimes more vividly—to them. Bright, saturated colors like red, orange, and yellow are often associated with food sources like fruits and flowers in nature. Consequently, these hues can initially attract curious birds investigating potential nourishment. Conversely, studies indicate that neutral colors like tans, grays, and browns—which blend with many natural backgrounds—typically attract less attention.
However, "attraction" is complex. A bird may approach a colorful chair out of curiosity but not necessarily prefer it for perching or nesting. Factors like furniture material, location, safety from predators, and the presence of food or water are often more decisive. In urban settings, birds are highly adaptive. Their interaction with furniture is more frequently driven by its utility as a perch, shelter, or vantage point rather than its color alone.
Furthermore, some colors may act as deterrents. Very reflective or metallic surfaces can confuse birds, while certain bright hues might be avoided if associated with negative experiences. The commonality of color attraction varies greatly by species, season, and individual experience.
In conclusion, while birds do notice and can be initially drawn to certain colors, particularly bright ones reminiscent of food, it is not a predominant or universal rule governing their interaction with urban furniture. Their behavior is a multifaceted adaptation to the cityscape, where color is just one minor element in a complex decision-making process centered on survival and resource availability.