Solve your pigeon problems with pigeon proofing

Pigeon problems

Feral pigeons, sometimes called ‘rats with wings’, are a problem for many people. Originally bred from the Rock Dove, which inhabited mountains and cliffs, pigeons have adapted well to modern urban and rural environments, turning into a pest for many people in the UK.

There is only one species of pigeon, and they have an appearance which varies from white to brown/red. The majority however, are shades of grey and their feathers sometimes reflect different colours in the light. The average pigeon lives three to five years and within their lifespan they an average of four or five clutches of eggs a year, sometimes up to nine. Their quick breeding cycles has led to an increasing population, causing pigeon problems and a development in pigeon pest control.

Why are pigeons a pest?

More and more people are taking pigeon pest control measures for getting rid of pigeons not just because they provide a nuisance, but a health hazard too. Pigeons have been known to carry diseases which are similar to flu and pneumonia, and also the Salmonella bacteria. Although fresh pigeon droppings pose no risk to health, dried pigeon droppings can spread infection by releasing spores which are carried in the wind and inhaled.

Of the various pigeon problems the mess caused by their droppings is perhaps the most frustrating. It costs £15 million a year to clean the buildings, cars and other monuments which are made unsightly by their mess. This damage, unfortunately, is not always temporary. Pigeon droppings can erode paint and buildings if they are not cleaned off straight away; and with 18 million feral pigeons in Britain, this is often impossible.

In addition to the urban pigeon problems, farmers’ crops are suffering due to the appetites of the birds. The average pigeon eats 64 pounds of food a year, so a large group of pigeons can cause devastation on a field.

Getting rid of pigeons

There are many different methods of pigeon proofing and pigeon deterrent. Preventing feral pigeons in an area is ethical and efficient because it is a form of pigeon deterrent, rather than killing the birds. Poisoning or reducing food supply methods which have been used in the past to reduce the birds but have been proved less effective than pigeon deterrent in preventing birds from nesting in a particular area or building.

Pigeon proofing should be carried out by a reputable and experienced pest control company. They will use pigeon spikes and netting to prevent the birds landing and nesting in specified risk areas, meaning that the feral birds will no longer enter that area.

Your pigeon pest control programme should also include spraying the contaminated area to kill any organisms and pests which are present from previous pigeon contact and droppings. Taking these pigeon deterrent measures will prevent your pigeon problems, leaving you with a safe, clean and more pleasant environment.