Pigeons are well known for causing damage to buildings and statues due to the corrosive nature of their guano. Pigeon guano can also contain bacteria and fungus which carry diseases such as cryptococcosis, histoplasmosis and psittacosis. The pigeon droppings may block drain gutters, and pigeons will enter a loft or roof space to nest which will create a hazardous mess inside a building. A build up of pigeon faeces may pose a risk of pseudo tuberculosis and salmonellosis, and so will need to be professionally cleaned. Pigeon guano on pavement areas may become a slip hazard. Pigeons may carry parasites, and may cause a noise disturbance. The presence of pigeons and pigeon mess will be a deterrent for visitors and customers and can create a bad impression of a business or area. |
Feral pigeon - Columbia livia Pigeons can thrive in an urban environment, and can make use of the smallest of perching spaces. Common areas for the pigeon to roost include roof and loft spaces, guttering, ledges and balconies. Pigeons are social birds and prefer to live in large flocks, so it is important to tackle a pigeon problem as quickly as possible. Bird proofing: Bird proofing takes the form of netting, points and spring wire. Bird proofing is humane and does not harm the birds. Bird proofing is designed to prevent the pigeons from landing or roosting on buildings, and from entering into loft or roof spaces. Bird proofing is individually tailored to each site, and is a professionally fitted to ensure that it is as visually discrete as possible. Pigeon trapping: Trapping involves placing walk in cage traps with feed that will attract the pigeons. This can be an effective method of removing large numbers of pigeons. Pigeon shooting: This is offered as a last resort when trapping and proofing are unfeasible. |