General description of pigeons

Pigeons, especially rock doves ( Columba livia ), are robust birds of the family Columbidae that are well adapted to urban life. Their plumage is typically grey with iridescent green and purple highlights on the neck, and two black bands on each wing. They measure between 28 and 40 cm in length and weigh between 250 and 550 g. Pigeons are found on all continents except Antarctica and have adapted well to urban environments where they find abundant food and shelter.

Pigeons are omnivorous but feed primarily on seeds, grains, fruits, and sometimes small invertebrates. In cities, they often consume human food scraps and garbage, allowing them to thrive in densely populated areas. They are known for their exceptional navigational abilities, using both the Earth's magnetic field and visual cues to find their way. This trait has been exploited by humans in the past to create homing pigeons, capable of finding their way over hundreds of miles.

Behaviorally, pigeons are social and often live in flocks, usually consisting of 20 to 30 individuals. They are also monogamous, forming long-term pairs and sharing parental responsibilities. Both parents produce a nutritious substance, called "pigeon milk," to feed their young, a rare trait in the bird world.

Pigeons are sometimes considered pests because of the damage they cause to structures and their droppings. This is especially true in poorly maintained areas where pigeons can feed on a variety of waste. That being said, they are able to quickly settle in and co-exist with humans in busy areas.

Pigeons

Pigeons, although often associated with the image of public squares and building rooftops, can quickly become a nuisance when they settle in too large numbers around our homes or business premises. Here are a set of strategies to discourage these birds and protect your environment from the problems they can cause.

Background: Why are pigeons a problem?

Pigeons readily gather in large colonies, and when they find a suitable location, they can quickly cause property damage, build-up of bird droppings, and health problems. They are attracted to areas with food, water, and flat surfaces for roosting.

Discouragement Strategies: Making Your Spaces Inhospitable

Disrupt their Perching Habits

Pigeons like flat, stable surfaces to perch on. To discourage them:

• Install Anti-Pigeon Spikes : These simple and discreet devices, placed on window sills, balconies, and cornices, physically prevent pigeons from landing. Masterline spikes are also used by several industry professionals.
• Tight Cables : Stretch cables just above flat surfaces, such as roof edges. Pigeons find these surfaces unstable and prefer to look for another, more comfortable spot.
• Protection Nets : For areas where pigeons are particularly persistent, such as courtyards or balconies, installing netting can be an effective solution. They create a physical barrier that prevents pigeons from accessing areas they like.

Modify the Environment to Reduce Attractiveness

Pigeons always return to where they find food and water:

• Eliminate food sources : If pigeons regularly find food near your home, they will continue to return. Make sure your trash cans are tightly closed and avoid leaving food out.
• Limit access to water : Pigeons need regular water sources to survive. Fix leaks, remove pet water bowls left outside, and avoid having sources of standing water.

Visual and Auditory Solutions to Scare Pigeons

Pigeons, like many birds, can be deterred by visual and audible signals.

• Reflectors and Visual Effects : Use reflective tape, balloons with printed predator eyes, or windmills to create a moving environment that pigeons find uncomfortable.
• Sound Devices : Install devices that emit predatory bird sounds or ultrasound to disturb pigeons. However, the effectiveness of these devices may vary depending on the context and the persistence of the birds.

Intervene Directly: Capture and Relocate

In some cases, when pigeons are particularly tenacious, more direct intervention may be necessary.

• Capture Cages : Place special cages to capture pigeons. Use bread or seeds as bait. Once captured, relocate the pigeons a considerable distance away to prevent them from returning.
• Relocation : Be sure to check local regulations regarding the capture and relocation of pigeons. In some areas, it may be necessary to hire a professional for this operation. 

Long-term preventive methods

Once you have successfully kept the pigeons away, it is essential to maintain an inhospitable environment to prevent their return.

• Regular maintenance : Check your facilities regularly, ensure that pigeon deterrents remain in place and effective, and monitor for any new pigeon activity.

Working with professionals : For complex situations or large infestations, consider hiring pest management experts. They can offer tailored solutions and ensure maximum effectiveness.

The dangers and damage caused by pigeons

The presence of pigeons can pose significant health risks and material problems, particularly in urban areas where they proliferate.

Health risks

Pigeons carry a variety of pathogens, including those responsible for diseases such as psittacosis, histoplasmosis, and cryptococcosis. These respiratory infections can be contracted by inhaling particles of their dried droppings, which easily become airborne (suspended in the air). People who are most vulnerable are those with respiratory problems or weakened immune systems. Pigeon droppings can also attract pests such as mites and fleas, which introduce other health risks into properties.

Material damage

Pigeon droppings, which are particularly acidic, corrode building materials such as metal, stone and concrete. This leads to the gradual deterioration of structures, including roofs, gutters and façades. Nests built in air ducts and chimneys often block drainage and ventilation systems, increasing the risk of toxic gas build-up and water damage. This damage results in high repair costs for homeowners.

Nuisances and environmental impact

Large pigeon colonies can also cause visual and olfactory nuisances. Accumulated droppings are not only unsightly but also slippery, creating tripping hazards in pedestrian areas. In addition, nutrients in droppings can disrupt local ecosystems by contaminating water and promoting harmful algal blooms in water sources.

To limit the risks associated with pigeons, it is recommended to take deterrent measures, such as installing spikes or anti-bird nets, and to carry out regular cleaning to avoid the accumulation of droppings.

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