Get Rid of Pigeons

Habitat and Nesting Preferences 

Pigeons are highly adaptable birds that thrive in both urban and rural environments. They prefer areas with easy access to food, water, and shelter. If you’re searching for pigeon removal solutions, understanding their nesting habits is the first step in effective control.

Common Nesting Sites: 

• Urban Areas: Rooftops, balconies, building ledges, bridges, and underpasses. These structures provide ideal shelter, making professional pigeon exterminator services essential for long-term management.

• • Suburban Areas: Attics, barns, warehouses, parking structures, and industrial buildings often become hotspots for pigeons looking to nest. Property owners looking for pigeons near me services often struggle with birds roosting in these areas.

• Commercial/Industrial Sites: Shopping centers, factories, and construction sites frequently attract large pigeon populations due to abundant food sources. A pigeon exterminator company can implement exclusion techniques to keep these areas bird-free.

• Natural Areas: Cliffs, rock ledges, and abandoned structures serve as nesting spots in rural settings, requiring pigeon removal company services to prevent infestations from spreading.

Nesting Characteristics

• Pigeons build messy, loosely structured nests made of twigs, leaves, and feathers.
• They often reuse the same nesting spot multiple times, leading to large accumulations of droppings and debris, increasing the need for pigeon exterminator assistance.
• Unlike many birds, pigeons prefer nesting on flat surfaces rather than in trees.

Identifying Pigeon Infestation Signs 

A pigeon infestation can develop gradually, often going unnoticed until property damage or health hazards become apparent. Recognizing the early warning signs of a pigeon problem is crucial to preventing long-term issues. Here are the most common indicators of a pigeon infestation:

1. Large Numbers of Pigeons Roosting on Structures

Pigeons prefer to roost on flat, elevated surfaces, such as:

• Building ledges, balconies, and rooftops
• Window sills and signs
• I-Beams in a warehouse, loading bay or storage site
• Bridges, warehouses, and parking structures
• Air conditioning units and chimneys

If you frequently see multiple pigeons resting in the same area, it is a strong indication that they have established a nesting or feeding site nearby. Unlike migratory birds, pigeons remain in the same location year-round, meaning they are unlikely to leave without intervention. If you’re looking for pigeon removal solutions, professional intervention may be necessary to prevent long-term damage.

2. Accumulation of Pigeon Droppings

Pigeon droppings are one of the most visible and concerning signs of an infestation. You may notice:

• Large piles of dried or wet droppings near roosting or feeding areas
• Droppings staining windows, walls, sidewalks, vehicles, and outdoor furniture
• Strong ammonia-like odors from buildup

Why Are Pigeon Droppings a Problem?

• Highly acidic – Can corrode metal, stone, and paint over time
• Health hazard – Contains bacteria, fungi, and parasites that can cause respiratory illnesses
• Slippery and hazardous – Increases the risk of slips and falls, especially on sidewalks, fire escapes, and staircases

A pigeon exterminator company can help address excessive droppings and implement preventive measures to stop pigeons from nesting in high-traffic areas.

3. Presence of Nesting Materials and Feathers

Pigeons build untidy nests using:

• Twigs, grass, and straw
• Feathers and droppings
• Paper, plastic, and other urban debris

Where to Look for Nests:

• Inside gutters, air vents, and chimneys
• On building ledges, balconies, and under solar panels
• In attics, warehouses, and storage areas
• Inside old machinery or ventilation ducts

Nests create blockages in drainage systems, causing water damage and roof leaks. They can also become breeding grounds for mites and fleas. A pigeon exterminator can assist in identifying and safely removing nests before the problem escalates.

4. Constant Cooing and Wing Flapping Noises

Pigeons are not silent creatures. Signs of infestation may include:

• Persistent cooing sounds, especially early in the morning or at dusk
• Wing flapping or scratching noises in attics, vents, or eaves
• Increased activity near nesting sites

If you regularly hear loud flocks of pigeons in your area, it may indicate a large, growing population nearby. Searching for pigeons near me can help you find local experts to assess the severity of the infestation.

5. Damage to Property and Surfaces

Pigeons are notorious for causing structural damage due to their:

• Acidic droppings – Eats away at concrete, brick, and paint
• Nesting habits – Blocks vents, drains, and chimneys
• Pecking behaviour – Damages rooftop materials, insulation, and window seals

If you notice unusual stains, leaks, or clogged drainage systems, pigeons could be the culprits.

6. Increased Presence of Other Pests

A pigeon infestation often attracts secondary pests, such as:

• Bird mites and lice – Thrive in pigeon nests and can invade homes
• Flies and cockroaches – Feed on pigeon droppings and food scraps
• Rodents – Are drawn to the same food sources as pigeons

If you are experiencing an increase in pest activity, pigeons may be contributing to the problem. Pigeon exterminator services can address not only the birds but also the secondary pests they attract.

7. Pigeons Entering Indoor Spaces

While pigeons typically prefer outdoor roosting spots, they may enter buildings through:

• Open doors or windows in warehouses and storage facilities
• Damaged roofs, broken vents, or uncovered chimneys
• Unsealed gaps in commercial or industrial buildings

Once inside, pigeons can be difficult to remove and may cause contamination of stored goods, machinery, or HVAC systems. If pigeons have made their way indoors, seeking pigeon exterminator services can help prevent damage and maintain sanitary conditions.

Take Action Before the Infestation Worsens

Ignoring these signs can result in costly property damage, health hazards, and long-term infestation. If you suspect pigeons are nesting on your property, act quickly to prevent their population from growing.

Feeding Habits of Pigeons 

Pigeons are opportunistic feeders, thriving in human-populated areas where food is abundant. If you frequently search for pigeons near me, it’s likely that local infestations are occurring due to easily available food sources.

What Do Pigeons Eat? 

• Seeds & Grains: Corn, wheat, barley, and birdseed are dietary staples.

• Fruits & Vegetables: Berries, apples, and greens are commonly eaten.

• Food Scraps: In urban environments, pigeons feed on discarded food, including bread, chips, and fast food leftovers.

• Insects & Small Invertebrates: Occasionally, pigeons eat small insects, but they primarily consume plant-based foods.

Feeding Behaviour:

• Pigeons are social birds and feed in large flocks.
• They often gather around parks, outdoor dining areas, and garbage bins where food is easily accessible.
• Unlike some birds, pigeons rely on humans for most of their food sources.

If you notice large flocks of pigeons gathering near your business or home, reaching out to a pigeon exterminator may be necessary to prevent infestations from worsening.

Potential Dangers of Pigeons

While pigeons may seem harmless, their presence can lead to serious health hazards and significant property damage if left uncontrolled. Whether in urban, suburban, or rural environments, these birds can create costly and dangerous problems for homes, businesses, and public spaces.

Health Risks:

Pigeons are often referred to as “rats with wings” due to their ability to spread diseases, parasites, and bacteria. Their droppings, nests, and feathers can create unhygienic conditions, increasing the risk of infections.

1. Disease Transmission

Pigeons are known carriers of over 60 different diseases, including:

• Histoplasmosis – A fungal infection that affects the lungs, caused by inhaling spores from dried pigeon droppings. This can lead to respiratory issues and flu-like symptoms.
• Salmonella (Food Poisoning) – Bacteria found in pigeon droppings can contaminate food and water sources, leading to severe gastrointestinal illness in humans.
• E. Coli – Another bacteria found in pigeon waste that can spread through contaminated surfaces or food, causing stomach pain, fever, and diarrhea.
• Psittacosis (Parrot Fever) – A respiratory disease that can be transmitted through inhalation of particles from pigeon feathers or droppings, leading to flu-like symptoms and, in severe cases, pneumonia.
• West Nile Virus – While pigeons do not directly transmit this virus, they can attract mosquitoes, which are the primary carriers of this serious disease.

A pigeon exterminator company can assess the infestation and apply measures to minimize the spread of disease in and around your property.

2. Pigeon Droppings: A Hidden Health Hazard

Pigeon droppings are not just an eyesore—they pose severe health risks because they contain fungi, bacteria, and parasites.

• Dried droppings turn into airborne dust that can be inhaled, leading to lung infections.
• Accumulations of droppings near ventilation systems can spread harmful pathogens throughout buildings.
• Contact with droppings on sidewalks, rooftops, or windowsills increases the risk of contamination.

For effective cleanup and prevention, working with pigeon exterminator services ensures safe and proper sanitation methods.

3. Parasites and Secondary Pest Infestations

Pigeons often carry parasites that can spread to humans and pets, including:

• Bird mites – Tiny parasites that feed on blood and can invade homes, biting humans and pets.
• Lice and fleas – Can spread from pigeons to household pets or furniture, leading to itchy bites and allergic reactions.
• Ticks – Pigeons can carry ticks that transmit diseases such as Lyme disease.

4. Unsafe Public Spaces

Pigeon infestations can increase slip-and-fall accidents in public areas due to slippery droppings on sidewalks, stairs, or building entrances. This is a major concern for businesses and property owners, as it can lead to liability issues and lawsuits.

Property Damage Caused by Pigeons

Pigeons can cause extensive structural damage over time, affecting buildings, vehicles, and outdoor equipment. Their nesting and roosting habits make them a persistent nuisance.

1. Corrosive Droppings

Pigeon droppings are highly acidic, which can:

• Erode metal and stone surfaces, damaging rooftops, statues, and historical buildings.
• Stain and degrade paint on vehicles, signs, and windows.
• Weaken concrete over time, increasing maintenance costs for property owners.

2. Clogged Gutters and Drainage Systems

Pigeons often build nests in gutters, vents, and chimneys, which can:

• Block water flow, leading to roof leaks and structural damage.
• Cause mold and mildew growth, which weakens walls and ceilings.
• Increase fire hazards if nests block exhaust vents or electrical equipment.

3. Damage to Solar Panels and HVAC Units

Pigeons frequently nest under solar panels and on top of HVAC systems, leading to:

• Reduced solar panel efficiency due to droppings covering the surface.
• Blocked airflow in ventilation systems, increasing energy costs.
• Overheating and mechanical failure in rooftop AC units.

4. Agricultural and Garden Damage

Pigeons target crops, gardens, and stored grains, leading to:

• Loss of fruits, vegetables, and seeds in home gardens and farms.
• Contamination of animal feed and water sources in barns or pet areas.
• Pecking damage to seedlings and plants, affecting agricultural yields.

5. Nesting in Hard-to-Reach Places

Pigeons build nests in hard-to-reach spots, making removal difficult and costly.

• Attics, lofts, and crawl spaces – Pigeons can enter through broken vents or windows and cause insulation damage and foul odours.
• Bridges, warehouses, viaducts and parking garages – Large numbers of pigeons in industrial settings create a major sanitation issue.
• Outdoor signs and billboards – Pigeons frequently nest on business signs, making properties look unkempt.

If pigeon nests are causing obstructions or sanitation problems, seeking pigeon removal services is the best course of action.

How to Prevent Pigeon-Related Problems

To reduce health risks and property damage, it’s essential to take proactive measures against pigeon infestations. Whether you’re searching for pigeon removal or looking for ways to deter them from your property, these strategies can help:

✅ Seal entry points to prevent nesting in attics, vents, or under solar panels.

✅ Install bird spikes and netting to deter pigeons from roosting on ledges.

✅ Regularly clean up food scraps and trash to eliminate food sources.

If you’ve been searching for pigeon near me and noticed an increase in their presence, it’s time to act. Professional pigeon control is the most effective long-term solution to prevent a growing infestation.

Pigeon Removal Process: How to Control an Infestation

Managing a pigeon infestation requires a multi-step approach, including deterrents, exclusion techniques, and professional assistance. Working with a pigeon exterminator ensures effective and humane removal.

1. Habitat Modification 

• Secure trash bins and eliminate food sources to reduce pigeon attraction.
• Keep outdoor dining areas clean and free from food debris.

2. Exclusion Techniques 

• Bird Spikes: Install spikes on ledges and rooftops to prevent roosting.
• Bird Netting: Cover open areas such as balconies and courtyards to block pigeon access.
• Bird Slope: Make flat surfaces uncomfortable for pigeons to land on.
• Bird Wire: Install galvanized wire along the length of the area to prevent birds from landing.
• Bird Coil: Install galvanized bird coil along the length of the area to prevent birds from landing.
• Bird Jolt / Shock Track: Install low voltage, low profile electrical tracks along ledges or areas where pigeons are roosting.
• Optical Gel: Multi sensory device that deters birds using sight, smell and touch.
• Bird Spiders: Physical deterrent used on rooftops, mechanical (HVAC) units and street lights to deter pigeons from landing on those areas.

3. Visual and Auditory Deterrents 

• • Reflective Tape & Decoys: Hanging reflective objects or using fake predators (e.g., owls, hawks) can deter pigeons.

• Eagle Eye:  An optical deterrent using reflective technology to deflect light and deter pigeons.

4. Professional Assistance 

If pigeon infestations persist, hiring a pigeon removal company is the most effective solution. Experts can assess the problem, implement humane removal methods, and install permanent deterrents to keep pigeons away.

Why Choose Professional Pigeon Control Services? 

• Expertise in Humane and Effective Solutions – Professional pest control services use advanced deterrent technologies and are trained in legal, humane bird management practices. A pigeon exterminator can assess the specific factors attracting pigeons to your property and develop a customized removal and prevention plan.
• Understanding Pigeon Behaviour – Pigeons are highly adaptable and often return to previous nesting sites. A pigeon control expert understands their habits and can implement long-term solutions to prevent reinfestation.

When to Call for Help: 

✔️ Large pigeon flocks nesting on your roof, attic, or ledges

✔️ Persistent property damage despite DIY efforts

✔️ Pigeon droppings causing health and sanitation concerns

✔️ Blocked gutters, vents, or HVAC units due to pigeon nests

If pigeons are taking over your property, it’s time to seek professional pigeon control services for a safe and permanent solution.