How Can I Get Rid Of My Roof Pigeon Problems?
When you consider a bird problem, you might picture an army of crows circling your property in a manner reminiscent of Alfred Hitchcock. However, pigeons are typically bothersome birds that cause problems for both residential and commercial properties in the real world. A pigeon problem might be overpowering due to their constant cooing, nesting practises and general mess-making.
But stop worrying now! We are going to provide techniques for eliminating and managing pigeons. We can help you, whether you're dealing with a small number of birds or a serious bird infestation. Now that you have your DIY supplies assembled, let's get started on solving the bird problem.
How to Recognise Your Pigeon Issue
It's critical to comprehend the extent of the issue before launching an offensive against these pests. Do the pigeons construct their nests in neighbouring trees, or are they roosting on your roof? What draws them to your property, and in what numbers? You can better deter pigeons with your approach if you pay attention to their habits.
Getting Ready to Remove Pigeons
You need to obtain a few things before you can start the bird control operation. Your first line of defence can be anti-roosting and bird spikes.
But keep in mind that these items only serve to deter birds from perching on your roof. They are not intended to hurt them.
Here's a pro tip: aluminium foil pans or reflective tape can frequently reflect sunlight just as successfully as other options, tricking the pigeons' sense of sight and luring them to seek out another roosting place.
Setting Up Deterrents
It's time to turn your roof into a no-fly zone with your pigeon-proofing equipment. In popular roosting areas, install bird spikes or other deterrents like wire mesh or bird netting. By taking these steps, pigeons will be kept out of these areas. Additionally, as part of your bird control strategy, you might want to think about using bird gels or lightweight kites fashioned like prey birds if you're also dealing with smaller birds.
Regular Inspection
Don't simply throw in the towel after installing your pigeon deterrents. It's essential to conduct routine inspections to make sure your efforts are yielding results.
Every week, look for new evidence of pigeon activity on your roof and in the trees nearby. Do you have any fresh nests? Are the pigeons relocating to another roof area, or are they flying away completely? You can prevent pigeons from using your roof as their preferred hangout by being watchful.
Health Risks
Because pigeons can carry diseases, it's important to remove them from your property. Risks to one's health from pigeon droppings include histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, and psittacosis. So, appropriately dispose of their waste while addressing the pigeon issue.
Legal Considerations
Let's now discuss the legalities. Check your local wildlife protection rules before using any bird deterrents. Certain regions have stringent laws governing the removal of pigeons that you may or may not follow. Permits could be required for specific exclusion techniques. Therefore, be sure that in your effort to repel pigeons, you are not inadvertently breaching any laws.
Expert Assistance
Pigeons can occasionally be difficult opponents, even with your best efforts. If so, it may be necessary to bring in the big guns—a pest control expert. Hiring a professional falconer or employing pigeon birth control are two more effective solutions that a professional may provide for your pigeon issues. These solutions, albeit somewhat more expensive, will address your pigeon problems in the long run. Check out our post on pigeon pest control for additional information.
Additional Deterrents
Other strategies exist for discouraging pigeons, which you can use in conjunction with your roof spikes. These consist of:
Sound Devices: One useful tool for frightening pigeons is a device that makes sounds similar to those of a predatory bird.
Reflective Items: Wind chimes and foil balloons can reflect light and produce an uncomfortable movement that pigeons find unsettling.
Bird feeders: Pigeon-proof bird feeders allow smaller birds to eat by preventing pigeons from controlling the food supply.
Secure Food Sources: Lock up your recycling bins, trash cans, and pet food. These pest birds can be drawn to any adjacent food source.
Pigeons and Other Species
Remember to keep an eye out for other species while you solve your pigeon problem. It should not be necessary to hurt helpful insects, other animals, or other birds to deter pigeons. Make sure your control strategies won't interfere with the pigeons' ability to function if they gather close to your solar panels.
Take Off with a Pigeon-Free Roof: A Comprehensive Guide on Removing Roof Pigeons
Even though pigeons can be an annoyance, there are several non-lethal ways to get rid of these bothersome birds from your home. Every degree of pigeon problem has a solution, ranging from professional pest management to do-it-yourself techniques like bird spikes and reflective objects. Respect local wildlife laws and consider potential health risks when planning your pigeon eviction.
You may recover your roof and bid your uninvited feathered guests farewell for good with a little time and patience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I feed pigeons to discourage them from my roof?
Ironically, feeding pigeons will likely make your problem worse. They’ll associate your property with food and invite more of their friends over.
Are pigeon droppings dangerous?
Yes, pigeon faeces can carry diseases that are transmittable to humans, including histoplasmosis and psittacosis.
Is there a humane way to get rid of pigeons?
Absolutely! Bird spikes, bird netting, and most other deterrents mentioned in this article are humane methods to eliminate pigeons. They simply discourage birds from roosting in these areas without causing harm.
Can I use bird spikes on window sills and roof tiles?
Yes, bird spikes can be installed on window sills, roof tiles, and even under solar panels to prevent birds from perching.
Can I hire pigeon control specialists for an outdoor space dealing with a pigeon infestation?
Yes, some bird control specialists deal specifically with problems like pigeon infestations in outdoor spaces. These experts use various techniques, including integrated pest management (IPM), to ensure an effective solution.
What can be done to prevent pigeons from nesting on my green roof?
A green roof can be an inviting spot for pigeons to nest. To discourage them, consider installing reflective surfaces or bird spikes, which can disrupt their ability to roost comfortably. Regularly maintaining your green roof to remove potential food sources can also help.
How can reflected light deter pigeons?
Reflected light can confuse a pigeon’s eyesight, causing discomfort and discouragement. Reflective surfaces or objects that move with the wind, like foil balloons, can be highly effective scare tactics.
What types of damage to buildings can pigeons cause?
Pigeons can cause significant damage to buildings. Their droppings are corrosive and can damage building materials. They can also block drains with their nests, potentially damaging the water.
What’s the best way to remove pigeon nests from my property?
Removing pigeon nests can be tricky and might require professional help. It’s important to ensure there are no eggs or young birds in the nest before removal. Always wear protective clothing to avoid contact with bird mites or droppings.
Why do pigeons congregate on my property?
Pigeons often congregate where they have easy access to food and shelter. If your property provides these necessities, you might deal with a pigeon problem. To discourage them, remove food sources and prevent them from nesting.
How effective are gel repellants for pigeon control?
Gel repellants can be highly effective in discouraging pigeons. They create an uncomfortable, sticky surface that pigeons dislike. However, they may need reapplication over time and might not be a long-term solution.
Can dealing with a pigeon infestation become extremely dangerous?
While “extremely dangerous” might be an overstatement, pigeon infestations can pose significant health risks due to the diseases carried in their droppings. If the infestation is large, calling in pigeon control services is best.
How can I stop pigeons from nesting without causing harm to small birds?
An effective method to stop pigeons from nesting while keeping small birds safe is to use exclusion techniques. You could install bird netting or use bird spikes, which tend to deter larger birds like pigeons but do not affect smaller species.
What should I do if scare tactics only provide a short-term solution to my pigeon problem?
If scare tactics like reflected light or sound devices only provide temporary relief, consider more long-term solutions. This might include population control strategies such as birth control feed or structural modifications like netting or spikes to prevent pigeons from nesting.