Pigeons found that there were many places to nest around our home, and it’s been a problem since. We’ve tried everything else, but the pigeons still come back every day. Now we’re thinking about hiring pest control services or buying some traps in hopes of finally getting rid of them once and for all.,
The “how to keep pigeons away from my balcony” is a question that has been asked by many people. There are many different ways to stop pigeons from nesting around your home, such as using bird spikes and repellent.
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For good reason, pigeons are sometimes described to as “rats with wings.” They forage for food, defecate all over, transmit illnesses, and, on top of that, they litter areas like rooftops and attics.
This post will show you how to prevent pigeons from laying eggs.
Controlling pigeons from nesting may be done in a proactive or reactive manner. Anti-bird spikes, bird netting and mesh, spices, reflective tape, wind chimes, and imitation predators are among examples. Alternatively, adopt a cat to capture and prevent pigeons, or hire a pest control business in a pinch.
You can reduce the harm caused by pigeon nesting by using preventive and reactive steps. But what are the dangers of pigeons nesting, where do they choose to construct their nests, and why do pigeons nest in our houses and structures in particular?
Methods to Prevent Pigeons from Nesting (Proactive and Reactive)
Pigeons may cause a slew of problems when they start nesting in and around your home, as many homeowners will confirm.
Pigeons belong to the Columbidae family, which includes doves and has roughly 316 species worldwide. They may live in a variety of environments, such as woodlands and open plains.
Pigeons mostly consume fruit and seeds, but some also eat invertebrates and food that people discard.
There are seven native species of pigeons and doves in the United States, including:
Pigeons with banded tails (Columba fasciata)
Doves on the ground (Columbigallina passerina)
Doves of the Incas (Columbina inca)
Doves of mourning (Zenaidura macroura)
Pigeons with a red bill (Patagioenas flavirostris)
Doves with white wings (Zenaida asiatica)
Pigeons with white crowns (Columba leucocephala)
The Passenger Pigeon (Ectopistes migratorius) was a once-common bird in the United States.
The Rock or feral pigeon is a common imported species (Columba livia). Other animals that often escape captivity and establish wild populations include:
Collared Eurasian Doves (Streptopelia decaocto)
Turtle doves with rings (Streptopelia risoria)
Doves with spots (Streptopelia chinensis)
Turtledoves are a kind of dove (Streptopelia turtur)
There’s a significant probability that the pigeon breeding near your house is a wild pigeon. Domesticated, these birds flourish in human habitats.
Methods to Prevent Pigeons from Laying Eggs
When we take proactive measures to address a problem, we may avoid it from becoming a problem in the first place.
By deliberately putting safeguards in place, we can prevent pigeons from nesting.
The following are some proactive strategies to consider:
Notifying Pigeons That They Are Unwelcome
The first step in preventing pigeons from entering your home is to provide a clear statement that they are not welcome.
There are a few products on the market that may help in this procedure, such as:
Spikes that prevent birds from roosting
Anti-bird/roosting spikes are a useful item that is reasonably inexpensive and simple to install on walls, rooftops, and other surfaces where pigeons could try to perch.
The advantages of them are that they are reasonably inexpensive and excellent bird deterrents. One criticism of these spikes is that they are unsightly.
Objects/tape that reflects light
Another way for preventing pigeons from breeding near locations you don’t want them to is to use reflective tape.
This tape catches the light and frightens the pigeons, preventing them from settling down and constructing a nest nearby.
There are a few items on the market that reflect sunlight in the same way that the tape does.
These reflecting gadgets have the benefit of not being as unattractive as bird spikes. Pigeons, on the other hand, may recognize that these things pose no genuine harm and choose to ignore them.
Mesh, Nets, and Wire for Birds
Putting up bird meshing and nets is a harsh measure, but it works. These nets act as a physical barrier, preventing pigeons from accessing that area.
These nets are often used to block off possible nesting/roosting areas and are effective at keeping birds out.
One downside is that windows are obstructed, and chimney meshing may degrade due to the smoke.
Bird Repellent Gel
Gel repellents are also available on the market. Pigeons may settle on these gels, which are spread on walls, roofs, and other surfaces.
Pigeons do not like to stand on this gel because of the sticky texture and fly away instantly.
These gels are transparent and persist for a few weeks, so they are not unsightly.
However, since the sticky material does not wear off fast, it is advised not to use these gels in locations where people and pets frequent.
Sprayers with Motion Detection
Another way to keep pigeons at bay is to use motion-activated sprinklers. When the pigeon gets close enough, the sprinkler activates and floods the area.
Although useful for your landscape, it will be ineffective in locations where the sprinkler does not reach.
Birds’ Electrical Tape
A pigeon electric tape may potentially be a helpful instrument, depending on your ethical beliefs. The necessary length is rolled out and put on a common landing site for pigeons.
Some items come pre-charged, while others need the use of a tiny battery. The pigeon lands, gets a tiny shock from the tape, and takes off.
This tape is inexpensive, effective, and transparent; nevertheless, if put on a balcony within reach, it may startle humans and dogs.
Alternatives to Store-bought Control Measures
Get yourself a cat. Purchase a cat if you are able to. Pigeons will be deterred by the presence of a cat. Using a cat to manage your pigeon population is not suggested, despite its effectiveness. Cats come with their own set of obligations and concerns.
A artificial (toy) predator, similar to having a cat, might dissuade pigeons. Pigeons might be scared by rubber snakes or birds of prey. This is a cost-effective solution; nevertheless, pigeons rapidly learn that a toy poses no actual danger and may disregard it.
Pigeons are also said to be deterred by the application of strong smelling spices. Spices such as black pepper, cayenne pepper, chili powder, and cinnamon may be placed along pigeon roosting/frequenting locations. These spices may also be mixed with water and vinegar to make a spray-on concoction that can be sprayed in areas where pigeons are not welcome.
Deter pigeons by erecting wind chimes or other devices that move or generate noise in the wind. If you can’t change the location you’re staying in, this strategy works great. This is a low-cost strategy to use. Its usefulness, however, is restricted to windy circumstances. Wind chimes may make a lot of noise, so think about your neighbors before using them as a deterrent.
Making Certain Your Home Is Pigeon-Proof
Pigeon proofing your region is done in combination with the purchase of deterrents to keep pigeons away of your yard (or at the least ensure they do not nest anywhere nearby).
Pigeon proofing may be done in a variety of ways, including:
Make sure any access holes in your roof are repaired and sealed. Try blocking up the eaves if pigeons may nest there.
Make sure your rubbish isn’t visible. Pigeons are scavengers that won’t turn down the chance to search through trash for a delicious meal. Pigeons are less likely to return for a visit if all other food is safely stored/discarded.
Feed your dogs indoors to avoid generating surplus food waste and attracting pigeons to your yard.
Perform thorough inspections of your home. Checking areas of your house for pigeons on a regular basis is the easiest approach to determine whether you have a pigeon issue developing. This will enable you to determine if pigeons are getting in and make any changes.
Pigeon Nesting Reactive Methods
If pigeons have already established themselves in a location and started to construct nests, preemptive actions will be ineffective.
Instead, the issue must be resolved. After the pigeons have been removed, preventative actions may be done to keep them from returning.
Unfortunately (for some), shooting native pigeons is illegal in the United States, thus alternative, deadly or non-lethal elimination measures must be used.
Unwelcome pigeon nests may be dealt with in a variety of methods, including:
Using the Services of a Pest Control Company
This is the most costly approach, but it may be the best or only way to get rid of pigeons from your building in certain cases.
When picking a firm, keep in mind that some aren’t always thorough or utilize practices that you don’t agree with.
Using Ultrasonic Technology
This technology has shown to be efficient in the agricultural business and warehouses, and it is now available to homes as well.
Pigeons are repelled and driven away from noise sources by generating noises.
Some of these sounds are pigeon alarm cries or predator sounds, while others employ frequencies that pigeons can’t stand and flee.
This procedure may be costly and harsh depending on the substance used, but it is effective when placed by a professional pest control provider.
Obtaining a Cat to Pursue Pigeons
If you need to get rid of pigeons, introducing a predator is a smart option.
Snakes are arguably the greatest choice (they can slither through roofs and narrow crevices fast), but they may not be suitable for everyone.
Getting a pet cat is an alternate option. All but the most determined pigeons will be chased away by the presence of a cat, which the cat may capture and consume at some time.
The most important drawback is that you’ll wind up with a pet cat, which, if you don’t mind it, may be a good thing.
Spices with a Strong Aroma
Spices may be used to evict unwanted birds in the same way that they can be used to discourage pigeons from nesting in the first place.
If you already have pigeons nesting, using strong-smelling spices (chilies, peppers, and cinnamon) in a dry or liquid form in the regions where they are nesting should be enough to get rid of them.
Sites Where Pigeons Usually Build Their Nests
Different pigeon species will build their nests in different places. Their nests are usually made of twigs and are referred to as “platform nests” because to their shape and construction.
In these nests, pigeons normally deposit one to two eggs.
The following are some examples of places where pigeons typically make their nests:
On the sides of cliffs, on rocky outcroppings/ledges.
In the nooks and crannies of huge trees.
Building ledges, beams, beneath eaves, inside barns, rafters, rain gutters, stairwells, or under bridges are all places where humans have built their homes.
Pigeon Nesting and Its Consequences
There are certain consequences we might anticipate if pigeons are allowed to their own ways when it comes to nesting.
The location of a pigeon’s nest will have a considerable impact on the problems it encounters.
The following are some of the consequences:
Pigeons defecate in the areas where they build their nests. If the nesting site is within your home, the feces will gather there.
Aside from hygiene concerns, bird excrement are somewhat acidic, causing paint and wood damage over time.
If they defecate on your automobile, the acid starts to eat away at the paint, which can be quite expensive.
Ammonia buildups and other health hazards may emerge from the accumulation of bird guano, in addition to attracting flies, mice, and other pests.
Snakes, raccoons (eggs), and wildcats are all prey for pigeons.
Allowing pigeons to build nests in your yard increases the likelihood of these predators pursuing their prey.
Diseases and parasites are carried by certain pigeons. In addition to mites and fleas, certain pigeons may transmit illnesses such as histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, and psittacosis. They’re all zoonotic (can be passed onto people).
Why Do Pigeons Congregate Near Our Houses?
Pigeons in the wild like to nest in regions with rocky ledges, mountainsides, or trees/branches.
Pigeons may nest in buildings that imitate their native nesting locations, such as homes, offices, barns, and even garden sheds.
Moving onto a house’s roof or attic has additional benefits for pigeons, including being warm, shielded from rain, light, and wind, and being generally predator-free.
These areas are also close to a stable and consistent food supply.
Pigeons have few alternatives for survival since natural breeding places are being replaced by structures and residential areas. It’s either move in or perish for them.
Last Thoughts
Pigeons construct nests all over human structures, providing serious health dangers to those who live nearby. The use of store-bought and homemade measures to keep pigeons from nesting is both preventive and extradite. When people expand into natural regions and drive nature out, pigeons and other animals are pushed into these circumstances.
The “why do pigeons keep coming back to my house” is a question that many people have asked themselves. The answer is not known, but it may be due to the fact that they are nesting around your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What deters pigeons from nesting?
How do you get rid of pigeons around your house?
A: The best way to get rid of pigeons is to spray them with water. Other ways include using pepper, or by placing some bird spikes around your yard.
What scent will keep pigeons away?
A: I am not sure if pigeons are the birds that you refer to. All smells will keep them away, but certain scents may attract them as well.
