How to Control Pigeons
Pigeons are often considered to be a nuisance in urban populations. Pigeons have adapted very well to thriving in highly populated environments. Pigeons do carry diseases and can destroy property with their droppings. There are completely humane solutions to controlling pigeon populations. While some people advocate shooting or poisoning the birds outright, these methods require cleaning up the dead pigeons, which can be as problematic as the live bird populations. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Shovel
- 4" Perforated plastic drain pipe
- 10' Pole or rod
- Wire mesh
- U-nails
- Bird spikes
- Pigeon Repellent Gel or Granules
Instructions
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Eliminate any pools of standing water on the property, as pigeons will be attracted to them. Dig a trench from the center of the low area to the point where the excess water can be drained, such as a storm drain. Place the 4" perforated plastic drain pipe along the trench and cover it with soil. Excess water should drain adequately to prevent further standing water problems.
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Remove pigeon nests. You may have to remove pigeon nests several times before pigeons choose to roost elsewhere. A 10' pole should be sufficient for nest removal. Search out pigeon nests and disrupt the nests by knocking them down with the pole.
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Hang wire mesh under lofts or under eaves to prevent pigeons from building nests. Measure the area to be covered and add one inch to each measurement. Use wire cutters on the mesh, or have your local hardware store cut the mesh to measurement for you. Secure the mesh to the loft or eaves with u-nails.
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Attach bird spikes to areas a pigeon may roost or land. Bird spikes create a physical barrier, preventing a pigeon from landing. Install spikes on curved surfaces: Glue, nail or tie the spikes on.
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Caulk bird gel onto areas where pigeons may land to feed or roost. This type of caulk repels birds safely. Buy pigeon repellent, which is also available as granules that may be spread in areas where pigeons are a problem. Both pigeon repellent granules and gel are environmentally friendly and designed to be safe around children and pets.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Michael Blann/Digital Vision/Getty Images
