Are you dealing with a pigeon problem in your outdoor space?

Pigeons have always been known to be pesky nuisances that can quickly reach overwhelming levels. From persistent cooing to mud-coated walkways and droppings around buildings, these pesky birds are an unwelcome addition to any property. However, you can take control of the situation.

In this pigeon management guide, we will provide tips and strategies for developing an effective pigeon management plan. One that is both practical and humane – while helping rid your area of these avian intruders!

Determine the Population:

The first step to any effective pigeon management strategy is understanding exactly how many birds are on your property. Knowing the population will help you determine which pest control or deterrent methods will be most suitable for your environment. It’ll also help you use resources wisely and get the best results from your efforts.

To know just how many birds you’re dealing with, start by surveying your property at night and keep an eye out for roosting birds or flocks in flight. Also, set up a few motion-activated cameras to help you take photos and count the droppings around your property. This will give you an idea of the activity level on your premises. If need be, contact a wildlife control expert to help you assess the size and density of the pigeon population on your property.

Identify the Roosting Points and the Problem

A primary concern with any approach to pigeon control should be areas where these birds congregate. Identifying where the birds nest and rest on rooftops and other urban features and pre-existing nesting spots can provide context for the best control methods.

Common roosting points include tall buildings, bridges, statues, or any other high surface away from ground level. These surfaces are preferred for two reasons: their height usually ensures safety from most predators, and they can provide a wide view of surrounding areas which is useful for scouting food supplies.

If you find them around your farm, they are probably after scattered grain or discarded waste. In this case, the best method would be to cover waste bins, collect split pet food and use netting over your grain fields.

Define Your Goals

Are you focused on reducing messes around public spaces? Are you looking for ways to discourage birds from roosting near buildings? Perhaps to reduce their population overtime? Or would you prefer to find humane solutions that allow birds to remain in their current habitats? 

Knowing your exact objectives will help guide your overall plan of action and ensure that any solutions implemented effectively achieve them.

Consider All Possible Solutions

Once you have identified the scope of the problem and determined specific objectives for your management strategy, it’s time to explore potential solutions.

While chemical repellents may appear to be the quickest solution, there are often more humane approaches that can be just as effective with fewer risks associated. Some of the recommended pigeon control methods include:

• Birth control- using birth control products to reduce the number of pigeons over time by preventing reproduction.
• Habitat modification- modifying the existing environment to make it uncomfortable or impossible to roost or perch on, for example, installing a bird slope on roofs, trimming tree branches, and installing spikes on ledges.
• Hazing – includes a variety of techniques, such as loud noises, water sprinklers, and bright lights to scare away pigeons and make them uncomfortable in their current environment.
• Trapping- using traps to capture the birds, then releasing them elsewhere.
• Cutting off food sources- controlling what, when, and where food is available.
• Falconry- using trained birds of prey to scare off pigeons from the area.
• Repellents- spraying a chemical repellent or using natural repellents like pepper to irritate and discourage the birds from roosting or nesting in the area.
• Installing physical barriers- using fencing or netting to restrict access to an area

Consider how these solutions may affect other wildlife and their legal implications or requirements.

Implement Appropriate Solutions

Once you have identified the extent of your pigeon population and why they are there, it is crucial to implement appropriate solutions. Different solutions may be more appropriate depending on the situation.

For instance, farmers may have to remove food and water sources, while building owners can install netting or bird spikes to prevent roosting.

It is also a great idea to combine different methods for effectiveness. For example, you can use predator decoys alongside ultrasonic sound devices to repel pigeons. The key is finding the right combination of solutions that work best for your particular situation.

Monitor, Evaluate Effectiveness and Reinforce

Keep track of how long it takes for the pigeons to return after implementing a particular solution, what other methods you can use if one method fails, and any potential risks that could arise from using particular strategies. If needed, make adjustments accordingly so that goals continue being met. This might involve changing product usage spots or implementing new repellent tactics altogether. If you find a solution that works for your pigeon control program, reinforce it.