Pigeon

Feral pigeons are actually domesticated rock doves that have returned to wild or semi-wild conditions. Often referred to as ‘rats with wings’, feral pigeons have become just as much of a problem in towns and cities as rats are. Pigeons have been known to carry diseases such as Chiamdiosis, a virus similar to influenza, and Psittacosis, similar to pneumonia. Spores from the droppings can be inhaled as dust and carried on the wind. It can cause a flu like illness in healthy people, but poses more serious problems to those with low immunity. In the course of a single year, a feral pigeon can eat its way through 64 pounds of food. With an estimated 18 million feral pigeons in Britain, this can pose a serious problem. Control is best by cage trapping; deterrent by spikes and nets.

How to Prevent Entry

There are three approaches to modern pigeon exclusion:

Netting; to exclude birds from accessing specific areas and roosting ledges.
Spikes; to discourage birds from settling on specific ledges.
Electric shock strips; are a new alternative to spikes.

In a DIY situation, bird spikes are the most appropriate method of preventing access to window ledges, gutters and other potential perches. These spikes are easy to cut to size and even easier to glue to the surface to be protected.

All other methods require professional input.