Introduction
The pigeon is a common sight in urban areas ranging from small rural hamlets to large metropolitan cities. Historically, pigeons are descendants of the rock dove and were brought into the country by early immigrants.
The largest problem that pigeons cause is the tremendous amount of feces they produce. Accumulation of the feces may pose a health hazard to the general public. The fecal composition is acidic and occasionally erodes metal and stonework.
In many cases, pigeons present problems in and around the home. Permanent control of the pigeon is not possible because these birds have adapted to stress and the many sources of food made available to them in the urban environment. The most effective control available is the alteration of their environment.
Physical Control of Pigeons
- The removal of roosting niches and the sealing of any crevices, large openings,
and entrances in high areas aids in effective control.
- Available water sources, such as rooftop air conditioners, should be eliminated
by screening.
- Never leave food or water sources exposed outdoors.
- Keep garbage containers closed. Dispose of garbage on a regular basis.
- On flat roofs or preferred ledge sites, bristling wires or sticky pastes
can be used to deter constant infestation.
- Traps can be made or purchased. Although trapping is a slow and expensive
process, it is an effective means of controlling the pigeon population in
a given area. Rooftops, common roosting areas, and feeding areas are generally
good places for trapping. Small traps are effective, but large walk-in types
are better. It is important to bait the traps with the kind of food the birds
are eating. Whole corn and grain sorghum are generally good baits.
- Bird scaring devices can also be purchased to frighten birds from a given
area. Loud noises, flashing lights, windmills, and recordings of bird distress
calls can be effective means of control. However, pigeons will adapt to this
type of control method.
Chemical Control of Pigeons
Home and Garden Applications
Bird repellents containing polymerized butenes such as HOT FOOT®,
RO-PEL®, and SHOO® are effective in controlling the pigeons
around the home and garden. These products are formulated as soft, sticky substances
which are applied to windows, sills, eaves, roofs, and ornamental plants to
discourage birds from roosting. Most bird repellents can be purchased at local
hardware stores or reputable garden centres.
Commercial Applications
Bird repellents, bird chemosterilants, and bird toxicants are available for use around areas such as: commercial facilities, farm buildings, grain elevators, and nurseries. These products are generally sold for commercial or restricted use by qualified professionals.
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