Do you have a problem with pigeons? While their cooing may seem charming, pigeons can quickly become a nuisance, especially when they gather in large numbers.
In Australia, these birds are often found in urban areas but can also make homes in residential backyards, on rooftops, and even balconies.
Whether it’s their droppings covering your car or driveway or the loud flapping of wings as they take flight, pigeons can cause damage and disrupt the peace.
Fortunately, there are several effective ways to get rid of pigeons and prevent them from returning.
Let’s get straight to the point
To get rid of pigeons, it’s essential to remove food sources and make your property less attractive to them. Start by securing bins, cleaning up after outdoor meals, and avoiding feeding birds.
Deter pigeons from nesting with bird spikes, shock strips, or bird netting, and seal entry points to your home. Use reflective objects, wind chimes, or ultrasonic devices as additional deterrents.
For a natural approach, use gel repellents or prune trees and shrubs. If the problem persists, consult professional pest control. Culling has been ineffective for a long time; the key is prevention through humane and sustainable methods.
Why Are Pigeons a Problem?
Health and Property Risks
Pigeons are not just a harmless presence. Their droppings are highly acidic and can cause damage to surfaces such as roofing, car paint, and solar panels.
Moreover, pigeon droppings can be a health hazard as they may carry diseases and parasites, which is a particular concern for those with weakened immune systems.
Noise Pollution
While one or two pigeons may not seem noisy, a large flock can create a significant disturbance.
The constant cooing and flapping of wings can quickly become an irritation, particularly in urban or residential areas where pigeons congregate.
How to Get Rid of Pigeons: Effective Strategies
H3: Eliminate Food Sources
The first step in getting rid of pigeons is to remove all potential food sources. Pigeons are opportunistic feeders, and any scraps of food, bird seed, or open rubbish bins can attract them to your property.
Tips for Eliminating Food Sources:
- Secure your bins: Make sure all garbage, recycling, and compost bins are properly sealed.
- Clean up after outdoor meals: Any food left after barbecues or outdoor dining should be immediately cleaned to avoid attracting pigeons.
- Avoid feeding birds: Even if you enjoy feeding smaller birds, pigeons will likely swoop in and dominate the food supply, leaving nothing for other species.
Prevent Pigeons from Nesting
Install Bird Spikes
One of the most effective ways to deter pigeons from landing or nesting on your property is to install bird spikes.
These long, narrow spikes can be placed on ledges, roofs, and other surfaces where pigeons like to perch.
Though the spikes look intimidating, they are safe and designed to make the area uncomfortable for the birds without harming them.
Use Shock Strips
If bird spikes are too noticeable, shock strips offer an alternative solution. These low-voltage strips provide a mild shock to pigeons when they land, encouraging them to move on without causing harm.
Bird Netting
For enclosed areas like balconies or patios, bird netting can be a very effective solution.
The netting creates a barrier that prevents pigeons from entering and settling. Just make sure the net is properly installed and secured to keep the birds out.
Seal Entry Points
Pigeons are smart, and when they feel threatened, or the weather takes a turn, they might try to seek shelter inside your home.
Inspect your property for any potential entry points, especially in the roof, attic, or near vents.
Use silicone caulk to seal smaller gaps, while larger openings can be covered with bird netting or hardware cloth.
Use Visual and Auditory Deterrents
Reflective Objects
One of the simplest and most effective pigeon deterrents is to use reflective objects.
Pigeons are easily spooked by moving light, so items like CDs, mirrors, or reflective tape can discourage them from staying in an area. These deterrents work well in gardens, balconies, or other outdoor spaces.
Wind Chimes
Another effective method is hanging wind chimes. Not only do they add a pleasant ambience to your outdoor space, but the noise and movement can help scare pigeons away.
Some wind chimes are also designed with reflective materials to double their deterrent effect.
Ultrasonic Devices
For a more discreet solution, consider installing ultrasonic devices. These emit a high-pitched sound that humans can’t hear but which pigeons find disturbing.
Solar-powered ultrasonic devices are particularly useful, as they require little to no maintenance.
Natural Repellents for Pigeons
Use Gel Solutions
A newer, more aesthetically pleasing alternative to bird spikes is gel repellents. These gels make surfaces sticky and uncomfortable for pigeons to land on.
Many gels also include natural scents like citronella or peppermint, which pigeons dislike. The multi-sensory approach (sight, smell, and touch) is very effective at keeping pigeons away from treated areas.
Prune Trees and Shrubs
Pigeons are drawn to heavy tree canopies and dense foliage as they provide shelter and nesting opportunities.
Regularly pruning trees and shrubs can help make your yard less appealing to pigeons. However, keep in mind that pigeons are adaptable and may still choose to nest in man-made structures like roofs and ledges.
Bringing in the Experts: Professional Pest Control
If your pigeon problem has escalated and the measures above are not working, it may be time to call in the professionals.
A licensed pest control company can assess the extent of the problem and recommend a customised solution.
In Australia, there are strict guidelines on how pests like pigeons can be controlled, and professionals will ensure that all methods are humane and compliant with local laws.
All Pests, for example, offers expert bird pest control services in Melbourne, Victoria. Their team can help to get rid of your pigeon problem for good by using a combination of deterrents, traps, and exclusion methods.
Debunking the Myth: Is Culling Effective?
Some people may suggest simply shooting or poisoning pigeons as a quick solution to the problem.
However, culling pigeons is rarely a long-term fix. Pigeons are highly adaptable and will quickly reproduce to fill the population void.
In most cases, killing pigeons only results in a temporary decrease in numbers, and the problem will return just as quickly.
The best approach is to use non-lethal methods that prevent pigeons from nesting and feeding in the first place, along with reducing their reproductive rates where possible.
Conclusion
There is no quick-fix solution to getting rid of pigeons. The key to effective pigeon control is prevention, which starts with removing food sources and making your property unattractive to the birds.
A combination of bird spikes, reflective deterrents, and natural repellents can help to reduce the number of pigeons around your home.
In cases where the pigeon population has become overwhelming, calling a professional pest control service may be your best option.
Remember, the goal is not to eliminate pigeons entirely but to manage their presence in a humane and sustainable way. By taking the right steps and remaining vigilant, you can keep pigeons at bay and enjoy a pigeon-free property.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Some Common Types Of Pest Birds?
Some common types of pest birds include pigeons, sparrows, starlings, and seagulls. These birds can cause problems in urban areas by roosting on buildings, defacing buildings with their droppings, and causing noise pollution.
What Can I Do To Prevent Pest Birds From Becoming A Problem On My Property?
There are several measures you can take to prevent pest birds from becoming a problem on your property. These include:
- Installing physical barriers, such as bird netting or spikes, to prevent birds from roosting on ledges or other flat surfaces
- Using bird repellents, such as sound and visual deterrents, to discourage birds from entering certain areas
- Removing sources of food and water, such as open garbage cans or standing water, that may attract birds
- Keeping grass and other vegetation trimmed to reduce the number of hiding places and nesting sites
How Can I Remove Pest Birds That Are Already Causing Problems On My Property?
If you already have a problem with pest birds on your property, you may need to take more aggressive measures to remove them. This can include:
- Trapping and removing individual birds or birds’ nests
- Using chemical repellents to deter birds from returning
- Modifying the habitat to make it less attractive to birds, such as by removing roosting or nesting sites
Are There Any Health Risks Associated With Pest Birds?
Pest birds can pose several health risks. Their droppings can harbour a number of diseases, including salmonella and histoplasmosis, which can be transmitted to humans through contact or inhalation.
In addition, pest birds can carry parasites, such as mites, ticks, and lice, which can also be transmitted to humans.
Is It Legal To Remove Pest Birds From My Property?
The legalities of removing pest birds from your property depend on the species of bird and the methods you use.
In many cases, it is legal to remove pest birds from your property as long as you do not harm the birds in the process.
However, it is important to check with local authorities or a wildlife management specialist to determine the specific laws and regulations that apply in your area.
