When you live in an area frequented by more than its fair share of pigeons, it is hard to stop them from invading your property and nesting. Gardeners can discover pigeons settling in virtually every available space throughout gardens, atop rooftops, or upon balconies. These pests can create considerable mess and costly structural damage to properties.
Their droppings can present a danger to human health and attract pests, including flies and rodents, into outdoor spaces and dwellings, creating additional complications. With this concern in mind, Jordan Foster from Fantastic Pest Control has suggested multiple methods to “keep [pigeons] away without hurting them”.
Netting
Employing bird netting proves a suitable choice, especially for balconies and locations that are difficult to access. Whether households face a widespread issue or merely occasional visits, a bird netting arrangement represents an “effective way of preventing them from nesting” on elevated rooftops.
The specialist maintained that bird netting is robust and will prove equally successful against seagulls and other varieties of larger birds. Additionally, the artificial fibres can endure severe weather patterns, including rainfall, snowfall, and extreme temperatures.
Ultrasonic bird repeller
An alternative “harmless solution” involves the ultrasonic apparatus. This represents scanning technology capable of detecting them from afar and “uses sound waves to drive pigeons away”.
The apparatus offers various settings that can be adjusted depending on the time of year. Jordan explained: “Ultrasonic systems are perfect for areas where noise-related methods are not an option since they can be used anywhere without irritating your neighbours.
“As long as the devices are working, pigeons will stay away from the area. This solution can work constantly with the use of a solar-powered device.”
Bird spikes
Stainless steel or plastic anti-bird spikes can be mounted horizontally to prevent birds from landing comfortably. They are said to “not cause pain or harm” to pigeons – they are merely a simple way to keep birds from building nests.
Jordan said, “This method is very effective in the battle against pigeons, and despite the appearance of the bird spikes, it’s entirely harmless.” Essentially, once the spikes are properly installed, the birds will lack sufficient space to construct a nest.
Reflective surfaces
Jordan insisted that this represents a “tried and tested method” for deterring birds from gardens. For instance, utilising CDs or other gleaming items that reflect sunlight.
The reflective surfaces can momentarily impair the pigeons’ vision and “make them stay away from your garden”.
Wind chimes
Installing a wind chime in elevated positions throughout gardens can deter pigeons from establishing nests there. These chimes frequently feature reflective elements attached to them, which stop pigeons from settling there.
