Pigeons, also known as “rats of the sky,” are notorious for being dirty birds that can carry diseases and cause damage to homes and businesses. If you’re dealing with a pigeon problem, it’s important to know what smells they hate in order to effectively deter them. As experts in bird control, we have extensive knowledge on this topic and are here to help.
Pigeons can cause significant damage to properties in a short period of time. Their droppings carry diseases such as histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, and psittacosis, which can be harmful to people with certain conditions. Additionally, pigeon droppings are slippery and corrosive, leading to the deterioration of buildings and an increased risk of accidents. Pigeons can also contaminate food meant for livestock and human consumption, block gutters and drainage systems, and create a fire hazard by building nests that block chimneys.
Getting rid of pigeons can be a challenging task, but it is possible with the right methods. Here are some effective ways to deter pigeons naturally:
Install wire coils, stainless steel wires, or spikes on flat surfaces where pigeons could land. These low-profile deterrents prevent pigeons from perching without causing them harm. However, they only deter pigeons from specific surfaces and may not keep them away entirely.
Running parallel wires across the roof can prevent pigeons from nesting or landing on the surface. This method is effective and affordable, and it can be done by yourself or with the help of a professional.
Sticky bird gels can be placed on the roof to create a sensation that pigeons dislike, discouraging them from landing. While effective and affordable, bird gels may be challenging to install on steeply-pitched roofs and require regular replacement.
Fixing kite-shaped decoy bird images to the roof’s eaves can deter pigeons from landing. These decoy kites fly in the wind and startle pigeons, discouraging them from roosting. However, they may not work if there is already an established pigeon population on your roof.
Motion-activated lasers flash when pigeons land on the roof, startling them and discouraging roosting. While non-toxic and humane for pigeons, birds may become accustomed to the lasers over time.
Nylon bird netting can be effective for roofs with pitches and eaves that attract pigeons. When hung vertically along the siding of a building, bird netting prevents pigeons from perching on the roof or surface. Nylon netting blends in with the building’s siding for a virtually invisible appearance.
Hiring a professional falconer is a natural approach to deter pigeons. Falcons and hawks scare pigeons away by circling the problem area, communicating that it is occupied by a predator. This method is effective, humane, and non-toxic, but its availability may vary.
In addition to general tips for getting rid of pigeons, here are some recommendations for specific areas:
Hang netting from the roof down to the sides of the balcony to seal off the area from pigeons. Deterrents like wires, gel repellants, plastic birds of prey, sound machines, and reflected light can also be effective in keeping pigeons off the balcony.
Use scarecrows with movement, bird netting, pigeon-proof feeders, or strong-smelling deterrents like cinnamon or hot pepper to keep pigeons out of your garden. Good sanitation practices, such as securing livestock feed and removing spilled grain or livestock feed promptly, can also deter pigeons.
Identify and block all possible entrances for pigeons using wire mesh and nylon bird netting. Place deterrents like wire coils, spikes, gel pads, or plastic owls in areas with concentrated pigeon activity.
Block potential entry points with wire mesh and hang long plastic strips in the entrance to allow livestock and machinery through while preventing pigeons from flying in. Use deterrents like spikes, stakes, gel deterrents, light, and sound devices to discourage pigeons from roosting.
Patch all cracks, gaps, and vents that pigeons could use to enter the warehouse. Consider alternative door options like plastic strips and use deterrents such as flashing lights and motion-activated noise devices to keep pigeons away.
Use netting to prevent pigeons from accessing the area under solar panels. Deterrents like roof spikes, plastic predators with movement, and light and sound devices can also be effective. Sanitation practices and panel repair can make the area less attractive to pigeons.
Contrary to popular belief, feeding rice to pigeons does not harm them. Pigeons consume grain as part of their diet and do not experience any negative effects from eating rice. We strongly advise against using rice or poison as a DIY pigeon control method.
If DIY methods are ineffective or you prefer a stronger approach, it is recommended to contact a bird control expert. Pest control experts use techniques such as bird netting, bird spikes, and bird deterrents to efficiently and humanely remove pigeons from properties.
If you’re dealing with a pigeon problem in the San Francisco Bay Area or Central Coast, our team at Bird Poop Cleaning is here to help. Contact us today for a free quote at 082-797-3702 or hello@khunclean.com.
Landscape Pro Turned Gopher Pro: Owner, Zach Smith, a graduate of Cal Poly’s Horticulture program, has been working in the field for over 15 years. His expertise in pest management includes dealing with gophers, moles, and ground squirrels. Bird Poop Cleaning’s professional team is dedicated to trapping and removing burrowing pests from residential, municipal, and commercial properties throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, from Marin to Monterey.