Pigeons can quickly become a garden nuisance thanks to their feeding behaviour and the risk of damage to property. Though they might seem harmless as they stroll through your garden, pigeons’ droppings and unsanitary nesting habits can actually lead to significant damage.
Gardening experts at FantasticPestControl recommend a simple trick to deter pigeons: placing a specific item near your bird feeders. While pigeons rarely pose a direct threat to people, they can contribute to the spread of airborne illnesses. In addition to disease transmission, these birds may host over 50 types of ectoparasites, many of which pose health risks.
The experts suggest tying a string across common roosting spots as an effective way to discourage pigeons from settling in your garden.
The experts added: “Strings tied one inch above the nesting areas will make landing uncomfortable for pigeons.”
In addition to carrying airborne diseases, pigeons shed plenty of feathers, which can scatter nesting debris around the property. These feathers often clog gutters, eaves, and vents, potentially leading to water accumulation and damage.
Experts also recommend installing anti-roosting spike strips as an effective way to keep pigeons from settling in your garden.
They explained: “Choose strategical spots such as window sills and ledges to deter pigeons from landing.”
The pet experts suggest that guarding the bird feeder will protect the garden from the “bully bird”.
They said: “When it comes to sharing, pigeons are known as the type that doesn’t. As soon as you stock your bird feeders, the ‘bully bird’ will arrive promptly, scaring off the smaller birds and stealing as much food as they can fit in their beaks.
“Your only chance for bird peace is to keep these intruders away altogether.”
