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Pigeons are a common problem in urban areas. They make their homes on the ledges of buildings, bridges, and light posts. Pigeons have even been known to roost in trees or on roofs.
As they gather in these groups, they produce droppings that can be unsightly and dangerous to humans who walk below them.
If you are looking for a complete guide on how to get rid of pigeons, then this article is for you! We also will discuss how to humanely get rid of them.
Why are Pigeons a Problem?
Pigeons are a problem because they can be carriers of diseases. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified pigeons as being one of the most common bird-associated sources of human infection in the United States.
They can also damage property with their droppings. Pigeon droppings contain an enzyme that can corrode and weaken metals, such as the girders of bridges.
Pigeons can cause a variety of problems, including:
Disease. Pigeon droppings transmit a variety of diseases, including histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, and psittacosis.
Certain diseases, such as pneumonia and meningitis, can be deadly or life-threatening to those with compromised immune systems.
Food contamination. Pigeons may contaminate food intended for livestock or human consumption in rural areas.
Slip and fall risk. Because of the way they feel and are shaped, bat guano is highly slick. This makes walkways, decks, porches, and other areas hazardous for foot traffic because of their slippery nature. This is a problem for both residential and commercial structures.
Corrosive damage to buildings. Pigeon feces is highly acidic, and it can damage structures, cladding, vegetation, and landscaping.
Blocked gutters and drainage. Pigeon nests in gutters or downpipes can lead to water backup, flooding, and other issues.
The longer you wait for it the most likely you'll have the house faced serious damage - or potentially expensive repairs.
Pigeon chicks must incubate 18 days in the incubation period. Pigeon nest will be quickly and permanently destroyed in any case.
How To Get Rid of Pigeons Quickly & Humanely?
There are many ways to get rid of pigeons, but some methods are more humane than others.
The first step is to identify how many pigeons are in the area and how they are getting into the area. Once you have done that, you can set up deterrents that will scare them away.
4 Proven Methods of Controlling Pigeons
Pigeon control falls into four general categories: scare tactics, ledge products, sensory deterrents,and exclusion products.
Let's take a closer look at each area and then see which solutions are appropriate for certain areas and problems.
1) Getting Rid of Pigeons with Scare Tactics
Scare tactics are typically inexpensive and easy to apply. They rely on startling or deter pigeons to get them out of an area. Scare tactics use a sudden or loud noise to scare pigeons away.
They may use a physical object, such as plastic owls and reflective tape, that will move in the wind and reflect sunlight while making a startling sound.
The following are examples of scare tactics:
- Predator Decoys, such as fake owls and coyotes, work well as pigeon deterrents.
- The Predator Eye. This is a sticker that has the eyes of a predator looking outward. It can be attached to windows, doors, or other areas where pigeons are roosting.
- Holographic Scare Tape. can be used as an under-eave bird deterrent, on ledges of windowsills, around air conditioning units, or anywhere else you have a pigeon problem. The flash effect caused by the movement will scare pigeons away.
- Bird Chase Super Sonic. Using sound to scare pigeons away is becoming more common. The bird's chase supersonic is a device that emits loud, high-pitched shrieking sounds to scare off pigeons and other birds.
Again scare tactics are a great way to scare pigeons away, but they cannot be used in all situations.
Because these techniques rely on startling or to discourage pigeons to move them out of an area and because pigeons can get used to a specific location if there is no other food source available, this may not always work long-term.
2) Getting Rid of Pigeons with Ledge Products
Ledge products are typically good for use on ledges or window sills in order to prevent pigeons from landing in the area.
They come in a variety of designs, shapes, and styles that will keep birds away. Ledge products can be used anywhere you want to stop pigeons from roosting or nesting.
The following are examples of ledge products:
Pigeon Spikes (Popular Products for Pigeons)
Anti-Bird Spikes are made from stainless steel or plastic and can be an effective pigeon deterrent because they do not allow pigeons to land on ledges and windowsills.
The spikes don't harm the pigeons, but they will make the surface very uncomfortable and difficult for the birds to walk or stand on.
Spikes require little to no maintenance, are easy to install, and deter pigeons perfect for both commercial and residential properties.
Bird B Gone spikes carry a lifetime warranty and are available in black or clear.
Electric Track for Pigeon Control
The electric track is a highly effective, humane solution to controlling pigeons. The track is designed to shock birds that land on it, but will not harm them because the voltage used won't electrocute the bird.
The track is safe with no risk of electric shock and can be installed anywhere you want to prevent pigeons from landing.
The kit comes with the necessary equipment for easy installation (including how-to guide) without any wiring or electrical skills needed.
3) Use Repellents and Aromatics to Scare Pigeons Away
Repellents and aromatics are a great way to keep pigeons from coming back. Repellents work by either making your area smell bad so the pigeon doesn't want to come near it or taste bad, which is how bitter apple spray repellent works for example.
Aromatic oils can be sprayed in areas where you don't want the pigeons to enter. You should regularly switch out your deterrents because if they get used to them, it won't work as well.
You also need to make sure that you are using many different types of deterring agents at once in order for how to get rid of pigeon infestation successfully. This is how you will be sure to cover all of your bases.
Some good repellents to use are:
Sticky Pigeon Repellent Gels
Pigeons don't like sticky surfaces, which is how these sticky bird repellent gel work. They are great for roofs and areas where pigeons like to land or roost.
The anti pigeon gel is humane, won't harm the bird, and won't trap them. It will simply make the surface unpleasant for them so they go elsewhere.
Aromatic Pigeon Repellents
Aromatic pigeon repellents work by making the area smell bad to the pigeons. This will make them want to go somewhere else where they can't smell the repellent.
There are many different types of aromatic pigeon repellents, so you can find one that works for your situation.
Ultrasonic Pigeon Repellents
Ultrasonic pigeon control methods are devices that emit an ultrasonic sound that is unpleasant to pigeons. It will scare them away and keep them from coming back.
4) Getting Rid of Pigeons with Exclusion Products
Scare tactics and sensory deterrents are effective means to repel pigeons, but how about if you want a more permanent solution? This is where the exclusion products come in.
Exclusion devices are physical additions you make to your property to prevent pigeons completely from roosting on or nesting in your home or office.
These products can be as simple as a bird netting system, bird spikes, or wire mesh installed around the perimeter of your building.
Bird Netting
One of the most popular exclusion products on the market is bird netting. Bird netting is a nylon mesh that comes in various sizes and can be attached to buildings, trees, or other structures with wire, staples, or hooks.
Some warehouses may benefit from the use of nylon bird netting. The netting creates an invisible barrier that pigeons cannot penetrate.
Bird Slope
Another popular exclusion product is the bird slope. The bird slope is a plastic or metal triangle that attaches to a building with adhesive or screws.
It angles outward and downward, making it difficult for pigeon roosting to land on flat surfaces.
How To Get Rid of Pigeons From a Balcony?
If you are dealing with a pigeon problem on your balcony, the first step is to identify how they are getting in. Are they coming through cracks in the railing?
Are there gaps around windows or doors that they are slipping through? Once you have determined how they are getting in, you can start to take steps to prevent them from entering.
Pigeons are scavengers, so they will eat just about anything. This means that if there is food left out on your balcony, it will attract pigeons to the area. Keeping all of this in mind, how do you get rid of them?
You can start by closing up any gaps or cracks through which they enter and by taking away any food sources. If you have a balcony grill, make sure it is closed so pigeons cannot enter from the roof above your patio.
Pigeons can be repelled by removing any bird feeders from your garden.
How To Get Rid of Pigeons at Industrial Facilities?
Pigeons can be a real nuisance at industrial facilities. Not only are they unsightly, but they can also cause damage and spread disease.
The first step in getting rid of pigeons at an industrial facility is to identify how they are getting in.
Are they landing on the roof or coming in through open windows? Once you have determined how they are getting in, you can start to take steps to prevent them from entering.
One of the best ways to keep pigeons out of an industrial facility is by installing exclusion products such as wire mesh or spikes around the perimeter.
You can also use netting or a bird slope to create a physical barrier that will keep them out.
Another way to keep pigeons away is by using deterrents. There are a variety of different types of pigeon deterrents available, so you can find one that works for your situation.
If you are using repellents, make sure to place them in areas where the pigeons are congregating. This will help to ensure that the repellents are effective.
It is also important to keep the area clean and free of debris, as this will attract pigeons. Regularly sweep up any food or bird droppings and mop up any liquid spills.
How To Get Rid of Pigeons on My Roof?
Pigeons can cause a lot of damage to your roof, so how do you get rid of pigeons? Pest birds, such as pigeons, may be attracted to your bird feeders.
The first step to deter pigeons on the roof is figuring out how they are getting onto it.
Are there gaps or cracks through which they are entering? If so, you will need to fill these spaces with bird netting, wire mesh, or caulk.
Another way to how to get rid of pigeons on the roof is by installing bird netting, a plastic sheet that bends and curves outward and away from the structure it is attached to.
This will create an invisible barrier between your building and where they roost at night, making them unable to land there.
How to Get Rid of Pigeons in Your Barn?
Pigeons can also cause a lot of damage in your barn. They will build nests on beams and rafters, causing wood rot or other structural issues with the building.
To how to get rid of pigeons in your barn, you should start by determining how they are getting into it. If there is an opening through which they are entering, you will need to close it up with wire mesh or caulk.
If there is not a physical opening that they are using to get into the barn, how do pigeons fly inside?
To how to get rid of pigeons in your barn, look for any areas where birds could perch and roost on beams and rafters. You can discourage them from landing there by using pigeon spikes or other deterrents.
Another way to repel pigeons in your barn is to remove any potential food sources.
This means keeping the area clean and free of debris, as well as removing feed and water containers.
How do I keep pigeons away from my vents?
Pigeons can also be a nuisance when they congregate around vents. Not only are they unsightly, but they can also cause damage to the vent and spread disease.
To how to keep pigeons away from your vents, you will need to figure out how they are getting in. Are they landing on the roof or coming in through the vents?
Once you have determined how they are getting in, you can start to take steps to prevent them from entering.
One way to keep pigeons away from your vents is by using exclusion products such as wire mesh or spikes around the perimeter.
You can also use netting or a bird slope to create a physical barrier that will keep them out.
Another way to keep pigeons away is by using deterrents. There are a variety of different types of deterrents available, so you can find one that works for your situation.
If you are using repellents, make sure to place them in areas where the pigeons are congregating. This will help to ensure that the repellents are effective.
It is also important to keep the area clean and free of debris, as this will attract pigeons. Regularly sweep up any food or bird droppings and mop up any liquid spills.
How do I get rid of pigeon poop?
Pigeon poop can damage your building if left unattended and can also be a health hazard.
To how to get rid of pigeon poop, you should start by cleaning up any droppings that are already on the ground. Use a stiff brush and hot water to clean the area and then disinfect it with a bleach solution.
You will also need to take steps to prevent pigeons from pooping on your building.
This means deterring them from roosting and perching on ledges, windowsills, beams, and rafters through the use of bird spikes or other deterrents.
Conclusion
Pigeons can be a nuisance in your barn, but with the help of an expert pest control company, you should have no trouble how to get rid of pigeons naturally.
The key is finding out how they are getting into your property and taking steps to prevent them from entering.
If all else fails, call in our team for professional pigeon removal services that will provide safe and effective solutions for your particular situation. Our professionals are standing by ready to serve you!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I permanently get rid of pigeons?
Recommend the best pigeon management practices that you can implement at the house just right away.
- Use an ultraviolet machine for pigeons.
- Installation of “the Scar-pig”.
- Use reflective surfaces for the protection of pigeons.
- Install a spike against predators
- Apply pigeon repellent gel directly on the roost.
- Mount motion-activated sprinklers on top.
What home remedy gets rid of pigeons?
There are several versions of bird repellent sprays you can make at home but the more typical is a concoction of chili peppers, water, and vinegar. To make this spray crush dried green chili pepper into water and vinegar.
What do pigeons really hate?
There is no definitive answer, but most experts agree that pigeons don't like:
Bright lights. Pigeons often avoid brightly lit areas. You can use this to your advantage by installing bright light fixtures near where they are roosting or nesting.
Noise. Pigeons tend to be scared away by loud noises. You can use this to your advantage by installing a sound machine that emits loud noises.
Smells. Pigeons don't like strong smells, such as ammonia or pepper spray. You can use this to your advantage by spraying these smells near where they are roosting or nesting.
Physical barriers. Pigeons don't like to be confined and will often avoid areas where they cannot fly. You can use this to your advantage by installing physical barriers, such as fences or netting.
Predators. Pigeons are afraid of predators and will often flee from their presence. You can use this to your advantage by installing predator decoys near where they are roosting or nesting.
What smells do Pigeon hate?
Interestingly - pigeons actually have a very sensitive smell that can travel easily.
To ward off pigeons try citrus-scented stuff, ranging from cinnamon to pepper flavored hot peppers, vinegar, or cologne. You can also use the essential oil of peppermint.