What To Know About Pigeon Removal?
Picture this: you’re sipping coffee on a glorious morning, only to find your sanctuary invaded by pigeons roosting, cooing, and leaving their calling cards—droppings. Ugh!
What to do? Fret not! We’ve hatched the perfect guide to help you wing it and bid goodbye to the pesky birds.
The Scoop on Pigeon Problems
Property Damage
Highly acidic pigeon droppings can rain on your parade, causing significant damage to roofs, solar panels, and air conditioning units. And don’t get me started on the nests clogging gutters and vents.
Health Hazards
Pigeon droppings are not just gross; they’re a health hazard. They can spread diseases, and let’s not forget about bird mites. Yikes!
Noise and Other Nuisances
Pigeons’ cooing might not be music to everyone’s ears, especially in large flocks. Plus, their presence can attract other pests.
Suit Up: Tools and Methods for Pigeon Removal
Exclusion – Give ‘em the Cold Shoulder!
Pigeons are like uninvited guests who won’t leave. So, let’s not make them too comfy.
Bird Netting
Using bird netting is like throwing a no-entry sign on your property. Specially designed netting can prevent pigeons from accessing preferred spots like confined spaces and ledges.
Wire Mesh
Cover vents and chimneys with wire mesh to keep pigeons from making themselves at home. Think of it as pulling the welcome mat from under them.
Deterrence
Deterrence is all about making your space less appealing to our feathery foes. Let’s roll out the unwelcome waggon!
Spikes
Pigeon spikes—not as sinister as they sound! These are humane ways of ensuring pigeons don’t settle down and start doodling graffiti with their droppings.
Reflective Devices
Who knew pigeons were not fans of shiny objects? Place aluminium foil pans or reflective tapes to scare pigeons away. They hate the reflected light!
Gel Repellants
Gel repellants make surfaces sticky and uncomfortable for pigeons. They’ll think twice before parking their feathery butts!
Decoy Kites and Wind Chimes
Harness the power of decoy kites shaped like birds of prey and wind chimes. Pigeons will be too spooked to linger.
Cost
This method can cost between £70 and £200. Not too shabby for reclaiming your sanctuary!
Trapping – Catch Me If You Can
When pigeon problems spiral out of control, it might be time for trapping.
Types of Traps
Cage Traps
One-Way Door Traps
Use bait like pet food to lure them in.
Cost
This will set you back between £70 and £200 for a domestic home. But don’t sweat it; it’s worth it. Trust a pest control company like Apex Pest Control for expert pigeon removal, ensuring a safe and pest-free environment for your property.
Nest Removal
Nest removal is as simple as it sounds – get rid of the nests.
Tools Needed
Gloves
Bags
Cleaning agents
Dietary Control – Food for Thought
Don’t feed pigeons. Seriously, don’t. And keep an eye on bird feeders, as they can attract pigeons like bees to honey. Opt for feeders designed for small birds.
Call in the Cavalry
When the going gets tough, call a pest control specialist! These pigeon wranglers know their stuff. Costs for professional services can range from £70 to £200.
The Legal Coop
Check local ordinances concerning pigeon removal. The last thing you need is legal trouble over birds!
Spread Your Wings, Pigeon-Free!
And there you have it—your ticket to a pigeon-free paradise. From bird netting to spikes and even reflective devices, there’s no shortage of tools in your arsenal. The sky’s the limit! So, gear up, plot your pigeon removal strategy, and reclaim your peace. Happy pigeon hunting (figuratively, of course)!
Frequently Asked Questions
What about other birds?
While pigeons are notorious, other birds, like sparrows and starlings, can also become nuisances. The methods mentioned usually work on them too.
Is pigeon removal a complex job?
It can be. The complexity depends on the extent of the pigeon problem and the property.
Can pigeon droppings affect solar panels?
Absolutely! Pigeon droppings can reduce the efficiency of solar panels.
What is the best solution for pigeon removal?
The best solution often combines exclusion techniques like pigeon netting, deterrents like bird spikes, and maintaining cleanliness to avoid attracting pigeons.
How do I clean pigeon droppings from window sills?
Use a mixture of bleach and water to clean pigeon droppings. Wear gloves and scrub the window sills thoroughly to remove faeces and disinfect the area.
Are bird gels effective in deterring pigeons?
Yes, bird gels are highly effective. They create a sticky surface that pigeons dislike, discouraging them from perching on the treated areas.
What can I do to address bird issues involving species other than pigeons, like woodpeckers and house sparrows?
For other bird species, you can use deterrents similar to pigeons, such as bird spikes and netting. Additionally, visual deterrents like reflective tape are effective for woodpeckers.
What should I do if pigeons are nesting on my property?
First, exclude pigeons by placing deterrents like spike strips or bird netting. Then, have the pigeon nests removed by a wildlife control professional to ensure it’s done humanely and legally.
How can I deter pigeons without causing them harm?
Use humane deterrents like bird spikes, netting, or gels. These discourage pigeons from perching without causing injury. Also, not leaving food sources exposed can prevent pigeons from congregating.
Can pigeon waste cause damage to buildings?
Yes, pigeon waste is highly acidic and can cause corrosion and damage to building materials, particularly metal.
How do I prevent pigeons from nesting under my solar panels?
Use solar panel birdproofing by installing mesh or a barrier around the panels. This prevents pigeons from accessing the space underneath.
What smells do pigeons hate, and how can I use them?
Pigeons dislike the smells of peppermint, garlic, and chilli. You can place crushed garlic or peppermint oil near areas where pigeons frequent as a natural deterrent.
What DIY methods can be effective for getting rid of pigeons?
DIY methods include placing aluminium foil balloons, using homemade pepper spray, and installing homemade spike strips on ledges.
How can I prevent pigeons from perching on my roof?
Place deterrents like bird spikes on roof edges and use bird gels on flat surfaces. Also, remove any food sources that may be attracting them.
Can shock tracks be an effective solution for pigeon control?
Yes, shock tracks give pigeons a mild electric shock, deterring them without causing harm. They can be particularly effective on ledges and rooflines.
Is hiring a professional falconer an effective method for pigeon removal?
Hiring a professional falconer can be a highly effective, albeit expensive, method. A bird of prey scares pigeons away and can be particularly useful in large open areas.
How do I ensure that once the pigeons leave, they don’t come back?
Regularly maintain and check all exclusion measures like netting and spikes.
Keep the area clean and free of food sources to ensure the pigeons don’t find a reason to return.
How can I use parallel wires to keep pigeons away from ledges and window sills?
Install parallel wires above ledges and window sills. The instability of the wires deters pigeons from landing, as they prefer stable surfaces to perch on.
What must I consider when choosing a wildlife control specialist for pigeon removal?
Ensure the specialist is licenced, experienced in pigeon control, uses humane methods, and offers a guarantee for the services provided. Ask for references and read reviews if they are available.
How can I safely remove pigeon faeces without putting my health at risk?
When removing pigeon faeces, wear protective gear such as gloves and a mask, and use a disinfectant. This is important as pigeon faeces can be a health hazard.
Please note that when dealing with pigeon removal, it’s important to consider the welfare of the birds and the safety and cleanliness of your property. Always opt for humane methods and follow local regulations regarding bird control.