How to Repel and Keep Pigeons Away Naturally
Pigeons, while fascinating to observe, can quickly become a nuisance when they take up residence on your property. Their droppings can damage buildings, vehicles, and outdoor areas, and they may carry diseases that pose health risks to humans and pets. If you’re looking for effective and humane ways to deter pigeons naturally, this article provides a comprehensive guide.
Key Tips to Remember
- Eliminate food sources: Secure trash bins and clean up outdoor crumbs or pet food.
- Use humane repellents: Reflective surfaces, netting, and anti-roosting spikes can discourage pigeons from settling.
- Leverage natural deterrents: Scents, spices, and predator decoys can make your property less appealing to pigeons.
- Hire professionals for persistent issues: When natural methods fail, pest control experts can provide advanced, humane solutions.
1. Eliminate Food Sources
Pigeons are primarily attracted to accessible food supplies. Removing these can significantly reduce their interest in your property.
- Secure Trash Bins: Keep outdoor trash cans sealed and ensure no garbage is left exposed.
- Clean Spills Promptly: Remove crumbs, pet food, or any spilled food from patios or outdoor areas.
- Avoid Feeding Birds: Even unintentionally, feeding pigeons encourages their return.
- Remove Fallen Fruits or Seeds: Regularly clear your garden of dropped fruits or seeds that pigeons may eat.
- Use Pigeon-Proof Feeders: Install bird feeders designed to exclude pigeons, ensuring only smaller birds can access food.
2. Install Physical Deterrents
Physical modifications to your property can make it inhospitable for pigeons.
- Reflective Surfaces: Use waterproof reflective tape, foil balloons, or hanging CDs to disrupt pigeons’ eyesight.
- Taut String or Wire: Stretch string across popular roosting areas about 1 inch above the surface to make landing difficult.
- Sloped Sheathing: Install angled sheathing on ledges, making it impossible for pigeons to perch.
- Bird Netting: Cover common nesting areas, such as air conditioning units or under eaves, with durable mesh netting.
- Spike Strips: Place anti-roosting spike strips on ledges, balconies, or window sills to prevent pigeons from landing.
3. Use Natural Scents and Spices
Pigeons are sensitive to certain scents and flavors. Utilizing these can keep them away humanely.
- Citrus or Vinegar Sprays: Spray diluted vinegar or citrus oil in areas pigeons frequent.
- Pepper and Spices: Sprinkle ground black pepper, crushed red pepper, or cinnamon around nesting spots.
- Citronella Candles: These not only repel mosquitoes but also deter pigeons.
4. Introduce Predator Decoys
Pigeons naturally avoid areas where they sense predators.
- Scare Decoys: Place hawk, owl, or snake replicas where pigeons roost. Move these regularly to maintain effectiveness.
- Real Falconry: Hiring a professional falconer can effectively scare pigeons without harming them.
5. Humane Removal Techniques
If pigeons have already settled, these humane methods can help:
- Spraying with Water: A quick spray from a hose can shoo pigeons without injury.
- Optical Gels: Non-toxic gels create visual or tactile discomfort for pigeons, discouraging them from landing.
- Contraceptive Feed: EPA-approved pigeon birth control reduces flock populations over time without harm.
6. High-Tech Solutions
For more persistent problems, consider these advanced deterrents:
- Ultrasonic Devices: These emit sound waves that repel pigeons, though they may also affect pets.
- Laser Systems: Lasers mimic predator movement, scaring pigeons away.
- Shock Tracks: Installed on ledges, these systems deliver a harmless electric pulse to deter landing.
7. Seal Potential Nesting Areas
Prevent pigeons from accessing hidden or sheltered areas:
- Close Gaps: Seal holes in your roof, attic, or siding with mesh or caulk.
- Trim Overhanging Branches: Eliminate easy access to rooftops.
- Cap Chimneys: Install mesh caps to keep pigeons out.
- Net Rafters: Cover exposed rafters in garages or attics with industrial bird netting.
8. When to Call Professionals
If your efforts fail to deter pigeons, professional pest control services can provide more effective, long-term solutions.
- Bird-Proofing Services: Experts can install advanced deterrents like shock tracks or apply pigeon-repelling gels.
- Cleanup Services: Professionals can safely remove droppings, feathers, and nesting materials, ensuring no lingering health hazards.
- Trapping and Relocation: Humane removal and relocation may be necessary for persistent infestations.
Key Takeaways
- Combination is Key: A multi-faceted approach works best. Combine physical barriers, scents, and decoys for optimal results.
- Regular Maintenance: Continuously check and update your deterrents to ensure they remain effective.
- Avoid Harmful Methods: Choose humane solutions to protect both the birds and other wildlife.
By following these natural and humane techniques, you can create a pigeon-free environment while preserving your property and peace of mind.
