Introduction
If you’re a homeowner, then you know that pigeons can be a big problem. These birds can take over your property, leaving droppings and debris behind and damaging your structures. So, what can you do to make sure you get rid of them? Getting rid of pigeons is important not only to protect the cleanliness and overall appearance of your property but also to ensure the health and safety of you and your family.
10 Effective Ways to Get Rid of Pigeons from Your Property
Here are some effective ways to get rid of pigeons:
1. Installing Anti-Pigeon Spikes
Anti-pigeon spikes are a humane way to discourage pigeons from perching on your property. The spikes are placed on ledges, roofs, and other areas where pigeons might perch and are designed to discourage the birds from landing, without harming them. This option is great for building owners and homeowners alike.
2. Using Bird Netting
Bird netting can be an effective way to keep pigeons off your property. It is a mesh-like material that can be placed over an entire area where pigeons congregate, such as a roof or balcony. The netting prevents the birds from landing, roosting, or nesting on your property.
3. Applying Anti-Bird Gel
Anti-bird gel is a sticky substance that can be applied to areas where pigeons like to perch. When the birds step on the gel, they get stuck, making it uncomfortable for them and discouraging them from returning. It’s important to note that the gel can be harmful to other types of birds, so be careful when using it.
4. Setting Up an Ultrasonic Bird Repeller
The ultrasonic bird repeller is a device that emits high-pitched sounds that are unpleasant to pigeons. The sound is inaudible to humans and doesn’t harm birds, making it a safe and humane way to keep pigeons away.
5. Installing Pigeon Wire
Pigeon wire is a thin wire that’s strung over an area where pigeons congregate. The tight wire makes it difficult for pigeons to land, roost, or nest, discouraging them from returning to your property.
6. Using Reflective Deterrents
Reflective deterrents, such as reflective tape, CDs, or mirrors, can be used to give off reflections that confuse and scare pigeons away. When the sun hits these reflective surfaces, pigeons are deterred from landing on or near them.
7. Utilizing a Water Sprayer
A water sprayer can be used to spray pigeons on your property. This option is only effective if used consistently and can be impractical for larger areas. However, it can be an effective deterrent for smaller areas where the pigeons congregate.
8. Applying Bird Repellent Spray
Bird repellent spray is a chemical formula that can be used to discourage pigeons from landing on your property. This spray gives off a scent that is unpleasant to birds and scares them away. It’s best to use this in conjunction with other methods for maximum effectiveness.
9. Installing Bird Electric Shockers
Bird electric shockers are devices that deliver a painful, but humane electric shock to birds when they land on a designated area. This option is more commonly used for commercial building owners but can be used for residential properties as well.
10. Removing Food and Water Sources
Pigeons are attracted to areas that have food and water sources. Removing these sources from your property can make it less attractive to pigeons. This option is not always effective and should be used in conjunction with other methods.
Pigeon Control 101: Tips to Keep Your Home Pigeon-Free
In addition to the above methods, here are some tips to keep your home pigeon-free:
Regular Cleaning
Regular cleaning can help to keep your property less attractive to pigeons. Pigeons are attracted to areas with debris, food waste, and other items they can use for nesting, so keeping your property clean is key.
Blocking Out Nesting Areas
Block out areas where pigeons might try to make a nest, such as eaves, rafters, or chimneys.
Installing Bird Houses
Installing birdhouses for other bird species can give pigeons competition for space. Be sure to install them in areas where they don’t interfere with your property.
Setting Up a Decoy Bird of Prey
Birds of prey, such as owls or falcons, are natural predators of pigeons. Setting up a decoy bird of prey can deter pigeons from your property.
Building a Scarecrow
Scarecrows are used to deter birds from gardens, so the same method can be applied to pigeons. Build a scarecrow and place it on your property to deter pigeons.
DIY Techniques to Ward Off Pigeons and Other Bird Species
Here are some DIY methods to ward off pigeons and other bird species:
Using Mylar Balloons
Mylar balloons can be inflated and hung around your property to deter pigeons. The reflection and sound of the balloons are enough to scare the birds away.
Hanging CDs
Hanging CDs on strings or in trees can deter pigeons. The reflection and movement of the CDs are enough to scare the birds away.
Installing Wind Chimes
Wind chimes can be hung around your property to make noises that scare birds away.
Hanging Flashing Lights
Flashing lights can be hung around your property to scare birds away, similar to the reflective deterrents mentioned above.
Using Scents like Peppermint or Eucalyptus
Pigeons are naturally deterred by certain scents, such as peppermint or eucalyptus. Spraying these scents around your property can keep pigeons away.
The Ultimate Guide to Pigeon Proofing Your Property
Here are some more comprehensive strategies to pigeon proof your property:
Sealing Entry Points
Seal off any entry points into your home where pigeons might try to get in, such as vents, windows, or doorways.
Installing Feeder Covers
If you have bird feeders, installing covers can help to keep pigeons from eating the food meant for other birds.
Harvesting Rainwater
Harvesting rainwater and using it to water plants can prevent pigeons from drinking from a water source on your property.
Choosing the Right Paint
Certain paint colors and finishes can deter pigeons. Choosing the right paint can make your property less attractive to them.
Disinfecting the Property
Disinfecting your property can prevent pigeons from returning. Pigeons leave droppings behind that can attract other birds, so keeping your property clean is key.
Natural and Human-Friendly Methods to Get Rid of Pesky Pigeons
Here are some methods that are both human-friendly and natural to keep pigeons away:
Utilizing a Homemade Solution of Chili Flakes and Water
Mixing chili flakes with water and spraying it around your property can keep pigeons away. The spicy scent of the solution is unappealing to the birds.
Using a Solution of Vinegar and Water
A solution of vinegar and water can be sprayed around your property to keep pigeons away. The smell of the solution is unappealing to birds but not harmful to humans.
Encouraging Natural bird Predators like Owls or Falcons
By encouraging natural bird predators, such as owls or falcons, to your property, you can naturally deter pigeons. This method is not always effective and should be used in conjunction with other methods.
Placing Fake Owls or Snakes
Pigeons are naturally afraid of these predators and will avoid areas where they are present. Placing fake owls or snakes on your property can naturally deter pigeons.
Conclusion
In conclusion, getting rid of pigeons can be a challenge, but there are many effective and humane ways to do it. Whether you choose to use one of the methods above or a combination of them, it’s important to act quickly to get rid of these pests. Remember to keep your property clean, seal entry points, and install birdhouses and other deterrents to make your property less attractive to pigeons. While it may take some effort, getting rid of pigeons is essential for the safety and well-being of your family and property.