bird pest

Author : Andy Asbury

Once a domesticated bird, roosting on rocky cliffs and protective ledges, the pigeon has evolved, now seeking refuge in today's busy cities. It has become one of the most common bird pests, lofting no longer on desolate stone bluffs, but on city balconies, window ledges and billboards.

Pigeons mate for life and are an extremely fertile bird; it's not uncommon for a pair to produce over ten baby pigeons each year. These squabs may begin mating as early as four months and tend to roost in the same area. With very few predators, and plenty of food, you can imagine how quickly they multiply.

With this increased population comes the inevitable mess from bird droppings. Pigeon feces is responsible for millions of dollars in property damage as well as posing serious health risks. It's a common carrier of serious diseases including encephalitis, salmonella and host for parasites such as fleas and ticks.

Managing These Pests

There are a number of methods available to control these pesky birds. Before you undertake any of these methods, be sure to clean the infected area thoroughly, removing all traces of their droppings.

I've listed some of the more popular systems for warding off pigeons, and you'll see that prevention is the most effective way to deal with these pests. Some frustrated residents may be tempted to poison or use other methods to kill the birds. Not only is this not an eco-friendly solution, but the methods can create adverse reactions from neighboring tenants. Moreover, the depleted population automatically attracts more birds looking for vacant spots to roost.

Don't Give Them a Reason to Stay!

Many times pigeons are encouraged take up residence by well meaning condo residents who insist on feeding them. This practice ensures you'll have unwelcomed feathered guests for life, complete with their babies and subsequent generations.

Visual and Audio Deterrents

Items such as owls, snakes, and ultra sonic signals are fairly cheap, but tend to have only temporary success. Once the birds figure out that the predator is not a threat, they will ignore it. Other audio signals include distress calls of startled or injured birds, and although this works with some species, it is not effective against pigeons.

Mechanical Barriers

These are available in a variety of shapes and sizes including spikes, and rounded coil shapes. They work well deterring pigeons, but not smaller birds such as starlings or sparrows. They require regular cleaning as they tend to trap debris.

Electric Devices

These are grounded, low-amp systems that repel birds with a pulsating shock. They are can be very effective, but can be expensive to install and may require maintenance.

Post and Wire

This inconspicuous and inexpensive system has been used in Europe for over 20 years. Stainless steel wire is attached to posts at differing intervals which deter birds from landing. It's effective against pigeons and gulls, but not starlings or sparrows.

Bird Netting

Netting works well to deter all species of birds, it's inexpensive, and almost invisible in appearance. This is an excellent first choice when bird-proofing an area.