What is Pigeon & Bird Control?

Bird and Pigeon control is the term used for the method of deterring or getting rid of a bird problem caused by unwanted pigeons, seagulls and other birds like starlings and sparrows that land, roost or nest on properties. The feral pigeons we see in our towns and city centres cause the greatest problems for property owners.

There are many methods of pigeon control, including:

What causes a bird problem?

In the vast majority of cases, the source of the bird problem will be the deliberate and persistent feeding of pigeons by the general public, whether that be via bird tables, open rubbish bins or discarded fast food containers, and the purposeful feeding of pigeons in parks and open spaces. This access to plentiful nourishment means the birds can breed all through the year. The birds favour positions high up on buildings as these are safe areas to roost and nest away from predators, whilst also giving the pigeons and other birds a good vantage point from which to see the surrounding area.

Urban environments are growing, and with the proliferation of food sources in combination with high roosting areas, they have become pigeons' and birds' preferred habitats. If the source of the pigeon problem is not dealt with, it will continue unabated, which is one of the main reasons why pigeon populations worldwide have continued to grow unchecked. One of the most common problems associated with pigeons is the unsightly and unhygienic soiling of buildings where the pigeons have been roosting and perching on ledges, roofs and window sills.

When faced with a pigeon control problem of this nature, most property owners will try to seek guidance from professional bird control specialists, only to be confronted with highly conflicting advice as to what product or service should be employed to resolve the pigeon problem.

How to solve your pigeon control issue?

Individual homeowners who experience bird problems can take action to help solve their pigeon issue using Defender® Bird Control Spikes. These are a humane method of preventing pigeons and similar birds from landing on problem areas. Although they seem aggressive, they are the only pigeon control product recommended by independent and expert bodies, such as the Pigeon Control Advisory Service (PiCAS International). This is because they do not harm the birds. Initially, they act as a visual deterrent, and if they attempt to land, the spikes press into their breast and make it uncomfortable to perch without harming them. They will move on to a more accessible roosting site. Humane methods should always be considered before resorting to culling or lethal pigeon control.

Defender® Bird and Pigeon Spikes can be installed easily by the property owner rather than requiring the services of a specialist bird control contractor. Bird Spikes can be siliconed, nailed, cable tied or screwed in position, which means they are effective immediately. If you would like to learn more about installing the Defender® Bird Spike Range, please view our Bird Spike Installation Guide.

Always be aware that if you have pigeons perching on one area of your property, and you protect that area with bird control spikes, the birds may move to another area of the same building. When assessing your pigeon problem before ordering and installing anti-roosting spikes, you should identify all the arplaceshere pigeons may potentially relocate on your property and protect those areas.

Established Bird Problems in Urban Areas

Any bird problem that covers large areas of towns and cities will have to be approved by the council or a similar body responsible for the area as a whole. These area-wide pigeon control systems will not only need to deal with the protection of the properties but also with the source of the problem, including the removal of large-scale pigeon roosts that have grown in derelict buildings.

One humane method of reducing pigeon flock size while reducing problems for property owners is providing one or more designated pigeon control feeding areas, for example, a public park. Those who wish to feed pigeons can do so legitimately, as the food provided will draw pigeons away from their existing feeding and perching sites, thereby dramatically reducing problems for property owners.

If a dovecote or other artificial breeding facility is provided near the feeding area, the birds will be encouraged to move away from their urban roosting ledges. The pigeons will lay eggs in the dovecote, which are then removed and replaced with dummy eggs. This has the effect of reducing flock size while concentrating the problem in one area where the birds can be accommodated.

If an area-wide pigeon control plan is implemented, pigeon control deterrents, such as bird spikes, will need to be provided on the affected buildings. This will force pigeons away from their existing roosting and breeding sites and towards the new areas.

If you have any questions about bird or pigeon control or need advice on how to solve your bird problems, then our helpful team can offer professional, friendly and free advice to assist you to solve your bird problem quickly and easily. Call us to speak to an advisor now on 01626 835055 or email us on sales@jonesandson.co.uk if you prefer.