How to Prevent Pigeons ? Understanding the Problem
Pigeon are common birds found in cities and towns across Canada. While they may seem harmless, they can cause many problems. Pigeons leave droppings that damage buildings, spread diseases, and create messy nests. They also carry parasites like mites and ticks. If you want to protect your home or business from pigeons, you need to take action.
How to Keep Pigeons Away Naturally
Pigeons stay where they find food. If you feed birds or leave garbage open, pigeons will keep coming back. To prevent pigeons, always keep trash cans closed and clean up any spilled food. Avoid feeding pigeons, as this encourages them to stay.
Use Bird Spikes
Bird spikes are plastic or metal strips with pointed edges. They make it hard for pigeons to land on ledges, roofs, or windowsills. You can install them on balconies, signs, and other flat surfaces where pigeons like to perch.
Install Bird Netting
Bird netting is a strong mesh that blocks pigeons from entering certain areas. It works well for gardens, rooftops, and open spaces. The net keeps pigeons out while allowing air and light to pass through.
Try Reflective Objects
Pigeons dislike shiny, moving objects. You can hang old CDs, aluminum foil strips, or reflective tape near problem areas. The flashing light scares pigeons away without harming them.
Best Pigeon Deterrents for Homes and Businesses
These devices make high-frequency sounds that pigeons hate but humans can’t hear. They work well in large areas like warehouses and parking lots.
Fake Predators
Pigeons are afraid of predators like owls and hawks. Placing a fake owl or hawk statue on your roof can scare them away. Move the decoy every few days so pigeons don’t get used to it.
Pigeon-Proofing with Sloped Surfaces
Pigeons like flat surfaces for resting. If you make ledges and railings slanted, they won’t be able to land comfortably. You can use angled boards or special pigeon-proofing materials.
How to Stop Pigeons from Nesting
Pigeons love to nest in attics, vents, and chimneys. Check your home for gaps and cover them with wire mesh or sealant. This prevents pigeons from getting inside.
Remove Existing Nests
If pigeons have already built nests, remove them carefully. Wear gloves and a mask to avoid diseases. After removing the nest, clean the area with disinfectant to remove any traces.
Use Gel Repellents
Sticky bird repellent gel makes surfaces uncomfortable for pigeons to land on. Apply it to ledges, beams, and other favorite spots. The gel is safe and doesn’t harm the birds—it just keeps them away.
Are Pigeons Dangerous? Health Risks to Know
Pigeon droppings can carry diseases like histoplasmosis and cryptococcosis. These can affect humans if the droppings dry and turn into dust. Pigeons also carry parasites that may infest homes. Keeping pigeons away is important for health and cleanliness.
Long-Term Solutions to Prevent Pigeons
Sweep away droppings and debris often. Pigeons return to places where they find old nests and food. Keeping areas clean discourages them from staying.
Professional Pest Control
If pigeons keep coming back, a pest control expert can help. They use safe and effective methods to remove pigeons and prevent future problems.
Educate Others
If your neighbors feed pigeons, the problem will continue. Talk to them about why pigeon prevention is important for the whole community.
Keep Your Space Pigeon-Free
Pigeons can be stubborn, but with the right methods, you can keep them away. Use spikes, nets, or repellents to protect your home or business. Remember, the key is to make your property unattractive to pigeons.
For more pest control tips, visit PestJam today!
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Prevent Pigeons
What are pigeons?
Pigeons are medium-sized birds that live in cities and towns across Canada. They are also called rock doves and have gray feathers with iridescent necks. Pigeons are known for living near humans and making nests on buildings.
Are pigeons protected in Canada?
In most Canadian provinces, pigeons are not protected wildlife. This means property owners can remove them if they become a nuisance. However, some cities have bylaws about how to handle pigeons humanely.
How long do pigeons live?
The average pigeon lifespan is 3-5 years in the wild. Some pigeons can live up to 15 years when kept as pets or in protected environments.
Why are pigeons a problem?
Pigeons cause several issues:
- Their droppings damage buildings and statues
- They can spread diseases through their waste
- Nests clog drains and gutters
- They attract mites and other pests
What are natural pigeon predators?
Common predators that help control pigeon populations include:
- Hawks and falcons
- Owls
- Raccoons
- Cats (for young pigeons)
How can I keep pigeons off my balcony?
Try these effective methods:
- Install bird spikes on railings
- Hang reflective tape or old CDs
- Use a fake owl decoy
- Apply non-toxic bird repellent gel
- Keep your balcony clean of food scraps
What do pigeons eat?
Pigeons eat:
- Seeds and grains
- Bread crumbs
- Food scraps
- Insects
- Garbage when other food is scarce
What are the different types of pigeons in Canada?
Common types include:
- Rock pigeons (most common in cities)
- Frillback pigeons (fancy breed with curly feathers)
- Homing pigeons (used for racing)
- Piebald pigeons (with black and white patches)
Do pigeons carry diseases?
Yes, pigeons can carry:
- Histoplasmosis (from droppings)
- Cryptococcosis (fungal infection)
- Psittacosis (rare bacterial disease)
- E. coli (from contaminated surfaces)
What’s the best way to scare pigeons away?
Effective scare methods include:
- Ultrasonic repellers
- Motion-activated sprinklers
- Shiny, moving objects
- Predator decoys (changed regularly)
Is pigeon poison legal in Canada?
Most pigeon poisons are illegal and inhumane. It’s better to use deterrents like:
- Bird netting
- Spikes
- Slope modifications
- Professional pest control services
How do I clean pigeon droppings safely?
When cleaning droppings:
- Wear gloves and a mask
- Wet the area first to prevent dust
- Use a disinfectant cleaner
- Dispose of waste properly
- Wash hands thoroughly afterward
Why are there so many pigeons in Toronto/Montreal/Vancouver?
Big Canadian cities have perfect pigeon conditions:
- Lots of tall buildings for nesting
- Warm air vents in winter
- Plenty of food from humans
- Few natural predators
Can I keep pigeons as pets in Canada?
Yes, you can keep pigeons as pets, but check local bylaws. Some areas require permits, especially for racing or homing pigeons.
Where can I buy pigeons in Ontario?
You can find pigeons for sale at:
- Specialty bird breeders
- Pigeon racing clubs
- Some pet stores
- Online classified ads (always check seller reputation)
How smart are pigeons?
Pigeons are surprisingly intelligent:
- They can recognize human faces
- Understand simple math concepts
- Find their way home from hundreds of kilometers away
- Remember locations for years
Are pigeons and doves the same?
Pigeons and doves belong to the same bird family. The main differences are:
- Pigeons are generally larger
- Doves are often white or lighter colored
- Doves are seen as more “elegant” in appearance
Why do pigeons bob their heads?
Head bobbing helps pigeons:
- See better while walking
- Judge distances
- Keep their balance
