Preventing Problems with Pigeons

On the surface one might think that pigeons and humans live in perfect harmony. Cities provide pigeons with food, water, free housing on window ledges, rooftops, bridges, warehouses and train stations. Plus, predators are few and far between. Likewise, pigeons provide city dwellers with a hint of nature amidst their skyscrapers and blacktop parks.

Then What's the Problem?

The problem is pigeon droppings. Not only are they unsightly, but can damage buildings, monuments and automobiles, as well as harm people's health if allowed to accumulate.

Exclusion is the Best Remedy

Removing pigeons is a short-lived solution. It simply creates a vacancy for another animal, likely another pigeon, to fill. Make sure attic and soffit vents are properly screened to keep nesting pigeons and other birds and animals out of your house or building.

To deter pigeons from roosting on railings and pipes install single strands of wire barrier 1 1/2 to 2 inches above the center of the surface so the birds will be off balance when they attempt to perch. You can also discourage them from roosting on flat surfaces like ledges by using boards or sheet metal to create a 45-degree or greater slope.

Fill large openings, such as garage entrances and doors, with heavy door curtains of plastic strip. This will discourage pigeons from entry, but still allow people and vehicles to pass through.

Pigeon Feeding

Excessively and regularly feeding pigeons with bread, table scraps and even birdseed supports their increasing numbers. An important part of controlling pigeon populations is to limit the amount of feeding by humans. The humane action is to gradually reduce feed, over a period of several weeks, to a reasonable baseline amount. Because pigeons are easily conditioned avoid routinely feeding them. Constantly change the time, the location and the day you feed them.

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