Copyright pestcontroljobs.org 2007 All rights reserved
 

How To Get Rid Of Pigeons

Birds are beautiful creatures but they can sometimes be a nuisance. Pigeons can be particularly bothersome and difficult to get rid of. They can carry several diseases and the uric acid in their droppings can damage the surfaces that they land on. Many home and business owners do not know how to get rid of pigeons once an infestation has occurred. Here are several steps that can be taken to remove pigeons from a property.

Make the Area Inaccessible

The first line of defense is to block off the areas where the pigeons are getting comfortable. Any type of eave, loft or opening should be closed off using blocks or screens. Only solid items or wire screening will work as pigeons can easily get through nylon and cloth netting.

Bird Strips

Bird strips are long metal spikes or wires that are put anywhere a bird may try to land. Bird strips are very effective at keeping birds from roosting in certain areas. There use will typically force the population of birds to relocate.  See our page on pigeon spikes.

Ultrasonic Repellants

Ultrasonic devices emit a frequency that will frighten or irritate the pigeons so they leave the area where the noise is being emitted. Humans cannot hear the sound as it is set at a frequency only a bird can hear. These are not effective for large amounts of space but can help in settings such as warehouses.

Chemicals

There are several chemicals available to deter pigeons from roosting. Most chemicals work by spraying on areas where pigeons will roost. The chemicals are either sticky or cause pain in the feet of the birds. The birds will usually not be able to tolerate the effects of the chemicals and they will not return.

Scarecrows

The concept of a scarecrow goes back a long time. The best forms of scarecrows to scare pigeons are owls, snakes or hawks. Placing them where the pigeons usually roost may scare the birds away. However, since the statues are inanimate, the pigeons may not be afraid very long.

Spices

Spices like cayenne, cinnamon, and pepper can deter pigeons. Generously apply the spices where the pigeons roost and reapply after rain, snow or very windy and wet weather.

Daily Annoyance

Spraying pigeons with water can annoy them into leaving. This technique will have to be done daily. If possible, a sprinkler can be set up to go off every day to help chase them away. Loud noises like bangs, sirens, air horns or gunshots will also chase them away. Although these practices must be done daily, the pigeons will eventually learn that they are not wanted and cannot rest peacefully, so eventually they will not return.

Pest Control

If there are still questions on how to get rid of pigeons, contacting an exterminator that specializes in birds is the next best step. They will be able to provide guidance and advice. They will also effectively analyze the situation and take the best course of action.

Getting rid of pigeons can be frustrating and difficult, but it is possible. Watching them closely to determine their habits will help to choose the best method of elimination. Pigeons can be a major problem and they can cause severe property damage. Eradicating a colony of pigeons will make any home or business a more pleasant place to be.
Controlling, harmful, disease carrying infestations