Pigeons, often regarded as the ubiquitous birds of both rural and urban environments, can spark mixed feelings among residents. Whether you’re situated on a sprawling farm or in the heart of a bustling city, you’ll frequently encounter these adaptable birds. They tend to congregate near farmyards, feed mills, parks, city structures, and bridges. However, it’s when they transition from public areas to private spaces that they can morph into unwarranted pests.
Tip: Not all pigeons are the same! The common feral pigeon is the most recognized, but other species such as the rock pigeon may invade your property differently. Understanding their behavior can help in devising an effective control strategy.
According to the USDA APHIS Wildlife Services, pigeons are regarded as one of the most serious bird pests in areas populated by humans. Issues tied to these avian nuisances include food contamination, structural damage to properties, and disease transmission. If your home or business is grappling with these pesky problems, the following control methods can help mitigate your pigeon invasion.
Related: Pest Exclusion Strategies to Protect Your Business
Discourage Pigeons from the Get-Go
To prevent pigeons from taking a liking to your building, it’s crucial to adopt preventive measures right from the start. Evaluate your daily habits that may attract these feathered foragers to your property. For instance, are your trash containers securely fastened after disposal? Pigeons are skilled scavengers; a dumpster can become a treasure trove for them.
Moreover, be mindful of any food left outdoors. Remove dishes and trash promptly, and clean up spills immediately to minimize food sources. Position bird feeders away from your structure and maintain them regularly to avoid unwanted guests.
Unique Tip: Consider using compost bins with secure lids as an eco-friendly way to dispose of food waste without attracting pigeons and other pests.
Pigeon-Proof Your Structure
Identifying areas in your building that could harbor pigeons is essential. Common spots include roofs, rafters, attics, ledges, balconies, garages, and outdoor sheds. To prevent pigeons from roosting or nesting, consider employing various deterrents. Install steel prongs like bird spikes or porcupine wire on surfaces where pigeons might perch.
Additionally, block openings such as vents with netting or screens, ensuring that these unwelcome visitors won’t be able to slip in unnoticed.
Unique Fact: Installing sloped surfaces on window sills and ledges can make these areas less appealing to pigeons as it prevents them from comfortably resting.
Set Live Traps
If pigeons have already infiltrated your building, your next immediate step should be removal. When using traps, position them in high-traffic areas where pigeons feed. Bait the traps with fresh food and water to entice them, but be prepared that this process may take days.
After capturing pigeons, it’s important to adhere to local regulations regarding their disposal or release. Keep in mind, however, that trapping can be time-consuming and potentially hazardous. Often, it’s prudent to rely on professionals for safe and effective pigeon removal.
Unique Tip: Regularly check traps to ensure you minimize stress on captured birds and to comply with humane trapping guidelines.
Apply Repellents
There are a variety of repellents—both chemical and natural—available to discourage pigeons from frequenting your premises. Visual deterrents can serve as a temporary fix while you strategize your long-term pigeon control. Hanging reflective surfaces from strings can scare pigeons away due to their discomfort with movement and light.
For a more robust solution, applying a product like Terminix® bird control gel provides a sticky deterrent that discourages roosting and nesting.
Unique Fact: Consider incorporating natural repellents such as essential oils, like peppermint, which can create unpleasant odors for pigeons without harming them.
Seek Professional Pigeon Removal Services
While implementing DIY methods may yield some results, there are times when the pigeon problem escalates beyond manageable levels. Whether it involves setting traps or implementing repellents, professional services often offer comprehensive solutions tailored to your situation.
Contact Terminix® for a thorough inspection of the issue and to implement effective products or strategies aimed at permanently removing pigeons from your property.
Unique Tip: Regular inspections and maintenance of your property can further deter pigeons and other pests in the future, ensuring your space remains comfortable and pest-free.
By following these expanded strategies and tips, you can effectively manage your pigeon problem and create a more pleasant environment in your residential or commercial space.
