Pigeon control
How to deal with this messy bird!
In our article ‘all about pigeons’ we looked at the lifestyle and habits of these adaptable birds that have very successfully established themselves in our urban settlements.
Because of the damage, mess and health hazard produced by colonies of feral pigeons, some method of pigeon control is essential.
Where pigeons are roosting on the outsides of buildings there are a number of options
Pigeon control through deterrents
You will probably have seen the wires and spikes places on ledges around buildings in your local town or city.
These devices are very effective at preventing new pigeons from setting up home on your building.
Pigeon proofing methods are sometimes less effective at deterring pigeons that are already living on the ledges, home is home after all, even if it means sitting between spikes!
Therefore removing the existing pigeons first may be necessary. And there are a number of ways of doing this.
Trapping pigeons
It is sometimes possible to set up a feeding station within an open and ‘unset’ trap.
Once large numbers of pigeons are feeding there regularly, the trap can be set and substantial numbers of pigeons captured at once.
The disadvantage of this method is that the trap cannot be set up and pre-baited on land where there is public access.
This is because any kind of obvious pigeon control measure tends to generate objections (and interference with equipment) from those members of the public that believe pigeons should be left to colonise an area without interference from man.
Shooting pigeons
In some areas it is possible to control pigeons by shooting. Again this option is restricted by public interest issues.
When pigeons move indoors
Sometimes pigeons gain access to the interior of buildings, usually in attics or roofspaces.
When pigeons have moved in, they create a great deal of mess and contamination. It is important that the pigeons are evicted and access blocked up.
The contaminated debris must then be removed by properly protected individuals as the dust and mess is a serious health hazard.
Effective long term pigeon population control
Pigeons are likely to remain a feature of human settlements, but numbers can be kept to a minimum by controlling the food sources that allow the colonies to thrive.
Deterring members of the public from feeding pigeons, and clearing up waste from our streets promptly is the most effective way to do establish proper levels of pigeon control.
Help with pigeon control
If you are suffering from pigeon activity on you property, we can help. Contact us for information and advice on…
01428 714031