Alright, folks, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty world of pigeon pest control. Pigeons, or “rats with wings,” as some cheekily call them, can be a downright nuisance. When their numbers go unchecked, the situation can escalate into a bird infestation. What’s the big deal, you ask?
Pigeon droppings not only make your property look like a crime scene needing cleaning, but they can also be extremely dangerous to your health. Plus, let’s not forget the damage to buildings, particularly roof tiles.
You might love feeding these birds in the park, but trust me, you don’t want them as permanent guests.
Species on the Spot
Let’s ruffle some feathers and talk about the birds themselves. Pigeons are not all the same – they come in different species, like Rock Pigeons, Homing Pigeons, and the almost mythical Passenger Pigeons.
Home is Where the Nest is
Pigeons love urban areas, perching on buildings and bridges and making nests anywhere they can squeeze into. They’re not picky – commercial properties, your lovely home, they don’t differentiate.
Breeding Like There’s No Tomorrow
Did you know pigeons breed up to 3 times yearly with 1-2 eggs per brood? Before you know it, your attic is like a pigeon’s version of a bustling city.
Hungry for More
Pigeons are real gluttons. They feed on seeds, insects, and food scraps. Basically, your leftovers are their delicacies.
Here’s where things get sticky. Pigeon droppings, or guano if you want to be fancy, can spread diseases like:
Psittacosis
Histoplasmosis
Salmonellosis.
Not to mention, bird mites, fleas, and other insect pests call pigeons their ride-share.
Droppings and Diseases
Droppings can contaminate areas and become a health hazard. When dried droppings are inhaled or come in contact with your skin – yikes!
Prevention is the best medicine, right? Regular cleaning and protective gear are your pals here. Think of it as keeping pigeons in check so you don’t check into the hospital.
Pigeon Deterrents
Spikes are the classic “keep out” sign for pigeons. Pigeon spikes are effective and affordable. You can’t go wrong here but don’t expect the pigeons to thank you.
Caught on the Net
Bird netting is another effective way to deter pigeons. It’s like telling them politely, “I’m sorry, but you’re not on the list,” according to your property’s VIP section.
Not Stuck on You
Gels can also be used, but they’re not everyone’s jam. They can be messy and lose effectiveness over time. On the flip side, they’re pretty affordable.
Pigeon Trapping
Cage traps, funnel traps, and automatic traps. With these traps, you can catch pigeons without harming them. The keyword here is humane.
What’s for Dinner?
For trapping to work, you’ve got to lure them in. Corn, bread, seeds – basically a pigeon feast.
Hold your horses! Before you set up your pigeon version of Alcatraz, check local laws. You might need permits or face restrictions on trapping.
Modify to Magnify Results
Modifying the habitat of pigeons can deter them. Think less of perching spaces, sealing entries, and keeping your area bird-free.
The Last Resort
Culling is a controversial but sometimes necessary measure. It’s vital to follow ethical and humane practises.
Bird control specialists are like Ghostbusters for pigeons. Professional pest controllers can evaluate your pigeon problems and kick them to the curb. For more on this checkout our pigeon removal article.
Cost and Considerations
Hiring pigeon control services might cost you a pretty penny, but consider it an investment in peace of mind and a pigeon-free property.
What’s Included?
These services typically include inspection, implementation of control methods, and follow-up. In other words, they’ve got you covered.
Saving Pennies or Causing Problems?
DIY methods can save you money upfront but be warned – they’re not always effective. You might save now but pay later with recurring pigeon issues.
Common DIY Tricks:
Pigeon spikes
Bird netting
Regular cleaning
Sealing entrances
Regulations & Laws
On the international stage, there’s the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and EU Birds Directive, protecting our feathery
National laws vary. In the UK, the lethal control (killing) of pigeons, seagulls, and other wild birds in the UK is legislated by the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (Chapter 69) effectively reports that it is illegal to kill or injure any wild bird, including pigeons.
Your city might have its own set of rules, like municipal codes. It’s always good to check before you act. Your local pest control company or council will know the legislation for your area.
Pigeon pest control is not for the birds – it’s a serious business. Whether you’re looking to safeguard your property or keep health risks at bay, remember that knowledge is power. Understanding pigeons, their behaviour and the available control methods is key.
Whether you go the DIY route or call in the cavalry with professional services, it’s imperative to be humane and lawful in your efforts. Here’s to a pigeon-free, peaceful coexistence!
Absolutely! Pigeon droppings can be a health hazard, carrying diseases and pests.
Yes, they are highly effective in keeping pigeons from perching and nesting on your property.
It’s a grey area. Culling should be the last resort and should be carried out humanely and ethically.
Biological pest control is controlling pests, like pigeons, using other living organisms, like their natural predators. In the context of pigeons, birds of prey can be an effective form of biological control.
Bird control services can include deterrent installations like bird control spikes, pigeon netting, bird-proofing of structures like solar panels, and cleaning services for bird droppings or pigeon guano.
Bird droppings, particularly pigeon guano, can cause health issues due to the harmful bacteria and fungi they contain. Plus, they can cause property damage and are unsightly.
Absolutely! Birds and pigeons can cause damage by nesting in unwanted areas, like under solar panels, or by introducing other pests like mites.
Some pest control companies use trained birds of prey as a natural deterrent for pest birds. Pigeons are naturally afraid of these predators and are likely to avoid areas where they are present.
Pest control services can offer a range of solutions for bird removal, including trapping and relocation, biological control, and bird proofing to prevent return.
In large cities like London, pest control is a critical service. Control methods must balance effectiveness, public safety, and consideration for the natural environment.
An expert in pest control can assess your situation and provide the most effective and humane solutions. They also ensure that all pest management follows local and national regulations.
Guano cleaning involves the removal and disinfection of areas contaminated by bird droppings. It’s important for maintaining clean and safe environments, as bird droppings can pose health risks.
Yes, gulls can be a significant issue, particularly in coastal areas. They can be aggressive, noisy, and like pigeons, their droppings can be a problem.
Heat treatments are more commonly used in controlling insect pests. They’re not typically used in bird control.
If a bird’s nest is causing a problem, professional pest control services can safely remove it. However, it’s important to check local wildlife laws, as some birds are protected, and their nests cannot be disturbed.
“Pest birds” refers to bird species that have become a nuisance or pose a risk to human health or property. Common pest birds include pigeons, gulls, and sometimes crows.
You should look for a company that offers comprehensive pest control services, has positive customer reviews, is fully licenced, and follows best practises in pest management.
Pigeon removal typically involves a combination of trapping and relocating pigeons, along with preventative measures like installing spikes or netting to prevent them from returning.
Professionals in pigeon pest control should know biology, especially ornithology, be trained in the various control methods and be well-versed in the laws and regulations concerning wildlife control.
To get rid of pigeons, combine several methods such as installing deterrents, sealing off nesting sites, and seeking the help of bird control services. Regular maintenance is also key.
Risk management in pigeon control involves assessing the potential health risks and property damage caused by pigeons and implementing strategies to mitigate these risks effectively.
Yes, solar panel bird proofing is a service offered by many pest control companies. It typically involves installing a mesh or netting around the solar panels to prevent birds from nesting underneath.
By managing pigeon populations, we can reduce their impact on native bird species and the local ecosystem. It’s important to use methods that are environmentally responsible and humane.
When you’re dealing with a few pigeons looking to roost at your property, some DIY methods will deter them. However, if no bird prevention is used a pigeon infestation will soon get out of control.
That’s when it’s best to seek professional help, not only for the prevention, but pest treatments inline with local law for bird control. Also, the clean up and sterilisation of the area to remove contamination the flock of pigeons left behind.