Pigeons
The facts
That allowing any type of insect or rodent within your premises or home will obviously be a nuisance and in some cases serious illness, loss of business and in extreme circumstances, legal and civil prosecution. Sometimes known as “flying rats”, they are birds which are descended from Rock doves and which interbreed with escaped racing pigeons and from domestic pigeon lofts. Their colours vary considerably from blue-grey, through blues, reds, mottled patterns and charcoal to almost pure white. The peak breeding season is between March and July but feral pigeons can breed all year round. Normally 2 eggs are laid with 2-4 broods each year. The eggs are incubated for 18-19 days and the hatched chicks (squabs) are fledged and leave the nest after 30-37 days.
Where do Pigeons live?
Over recent years there has been a marked increase in the numbers of these birds. They have thrived in our cities and towns by adapting to life, roosting and breeding in the seemingly inhospitable environment provided by tall buildings and other structures that provide a small amount of shelter (habitats very similar to the cliff homes of their ancestors). Balconies, flat roofs, ledges, loft spaces and empty buildings are often used if the birds have access. Nests are constructed of twigs but can also contain rubbish such as pieces of plastic; they may even be built on or near the dead bodies of other pigeons.
Why keep Pigeons under control?
They carry a number of potential diseases such as Salmonella, Tuberculosis and Ornithosis. Whilst there is no direct evidence that these diseases have been passed from pigeons to humans, the risk cannot be discounted. Their droppings, nesting materials and dead carcasses can contain a wide variety of mites and insects. These can then infest areas where people live and can then cause disease or allergic reaction. Large flocks of pigeons can drive smaller birds away from feeding sites. The pigeons can also spread disease to other birds, reducing their populations. They can also cause serious damage to and spoil the appearances of buildings. Fouling occurs where birds nest or roost. Apart from being unsightly, the acidic droppings can erode stonework resulting in costly long term damage. Gutters and drainpipes can become blocked causing flooding. Ladders and fire escapes can become coated with droppings, making them unsafe to use. Pigeon droppings are a danger to the public as they can cause slippery pavements and roads. Startled flocks will take flight suddenly, causing hazards to pedestrians and drivers. Encouragement of other pests. The feeding of pigeons attracts rats and mice, which take any uneaten food. Pigeon nests, droppings and dead carcasses provide a home for a wide variety of insects. These infestations can spread into buildings causing nuisance, damage and skin irritation.
Prevention & Control
All wild birds and their eggs and nests are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981; under this Act, birds cannot be taken or killed, and their eggs or nests (when in use or being built) cannot be taken or destroyed except under licence. The best way to prevent, or minimise, the nuisance caused by feral pigeons is to control where they roost, nest and feed. One way to do this is to ‘pigeon-proof’ your building. This includes simple tasks like sealing gaps under eaves and replacing missing roof tiles (please remember to remove pigeons prior to proofing works). Total proofing against all birds can only be guaranteed by closing all openings bigger than 20mm in diameter. Pigeons can be deterred from using common roosting sites such as window ledges and roofs by fitting stainless steel wires at the correct height to prevent the birds from landing. Other deterrents to the feral pigeon include barrier gel, spikes, netting and bird repellent gel. Finally, do not put down food to feed the birds nor drop litter (especially food litter).
Treatment
Contact Paramite Pest Solutions if you suspect you may have a problem and we can advise you on the best course of action. A visit by our pest control officer can be arranged, he will carry out a survey. Paramite Pest Solutions will take all possible precautions in the placing of poison baits. Revisits will be made until the problem is cleared.