Scientific research has proven, conclusively, that all lethal methods of pigeon control are totally ineffective in the medium and long-term reduction of pigeon numbers. In areas where lethal control operations have been carried out there will be seen to be an initial short-term reduction in numbers but, within a matter of weeks, pigeon numbers will have increased back to the pre-cull figure and in most cases will have exceeded it. This is because killing adult pigeons in a feeding flock favours younger birds that would otherwise have a poorer chance of survival. Many older non-breeding birds are removed during these culling operations and the younger healthy breeding stock remains in site and thrives as a result.

The facts demonstrate quite clearly that lethal control cannot be seen as a viable method of reducing flock size under any circumstance, irrespective of the size or extent of the problem. Quite simply, it is a completely ineffective control option, whether provided as a stand-alone control or whether it is provided alongside the installation of deterrents and anti-roosting devices. Pigeons control their own numbers very effectively according to the volume of food available to them. An adult pair of pigeons will usually breed 4-6 times a year.

Another reason for the steady increase in pigeon flock size is the deliberate and persistent feeding of pigeon flocks by a small number of dedicated pigeon feeders. Excessive feeding by persistent pigeon feeders, combined with lethal methods of control recommended by most pest control contractors have resulted in a growing problem for which there is no quick and easy solution. The only beneficiaries are the pest control industry and those that derive pleasure from feeding pigeons.

The use of dovecotes and designated feeding areas in public places combined with the use of pigeon lofts sited on buildings has helped local authorities and sites such as Nottingham City Hospital to concentrate and control pigeon numbers in a humane but effective manner. These control regimes are 100% non-lethal and yet they are both sustainable and publicly acceptable. Non-lethal control systems are just as valid, and just as effective, for individual buildings as they are for their area-wide and site-wide equivalents. Clearly, where an individual property is concerned it is important to install an optimum control system that will resolve bird-related problems both effectively, cost-effectively and in a manner that is sustainable.

Augsburger Model

AUGSBURGER MODEL

AUGSBURGER model has been proven several times and is not only humane, but effective in the long term. By having dovecotes or pigeon house pigeon populations would be limited in large areas. Pigeons are attracted and encouraged to breed in the dovecote. By replacing the clutches (birth control) the bird population in the area can be limited in the long term. 

  • Dovecotes offer feral birds a breeding alternative and lure away birds from affected buildings.
  • Sustainable and animal welfare friendly method of bird control.
  • Guarantee on the economical efficiency of the method for large areas.
  • This concept is often adopted by municipalities / cities, who rely on the “concept of animal welfare regulation of the population of feral pigeons”.

How it works?

  • Two pigeons need to be placed into the dovecote in order to attract wild pigeons. These pigeons and food attract the wild pigeons into the dovecote. By repeatedly placing food and water, the pigeons are attracted in the long-term to the dovecote.
  • Additional small cages with food and pigeons in them, will be placed in the area. When wild pigeons are captured in them, they will be permanently released into the large dovecote. This way, the wild pigeons in a larger area learn about the dovecote, increasing the efficiency of the dovecote in the whole area. This method of pigeon resettlement is patented.
  • With this model an area of 500 meters in diameter can be controlled.
  • The birds are regularly provided with food and medical care if needed.
  • The dovecote must be regularly cleaned and an extermination against pigeon fleas and ticks must be executed.
  • By replacing the clutch and by determining pigeons, who are allowed to breed in the pigeon house, long-term reduction in the bird population can be achieved.

Where to install?

Pigeon houses are built up at a prominent spot in the green area or on top of a building.

Pigeon houses are suitable for medium to heavy populations of birds.

Limit flock size with pigeon birth control

LIMIT FLOCK SIZE WITH PIGEON BIRTH CONTROL

As year-round nesters, a pair of pigeons can raise a dozen or more young each year. If pigeons have plenty of food and space, their numbers can quickly increase. Fortunately, a bird contraceptive is available that limits growth of pigeon flocks.

One of the most effective ways to limit pigeon population growth is to use pigeon birth control.

  • Pigeon contraception comes in the form of a kibble-type food, which causes birds who eat it regularly to lay eggs that fail to develop.
  • Combined with exclusion and other humane measures to discourage roosting and nesting, “Birth control” effectively reduces hatching rates in pigeons, thereby limiting flock sizes and diminishing problems associated with large numbers of pigeons.
  • OvoControl P (Nicarbazin 0.5%) is a ready-to use bait that controls the reproduction of treated birds, causing the population to decline through a natural process of attrition. This effective and humane technology is especially useful for managing pigeon flocks in large areas without having to resort to poisons and their associated risks.
  • Nicarbazin is a non-toxic compound that is environmentally benign, consuming it will not harm the pigeons besides making their eggs infertile.

How it works?

Typically it is administered by an automatic feeder which is best placed on a rooftop, this sprinkles the food out every morning so that the pigeons get it into their system first thing for maximum effectiveness. Once the Pigeons begin to eat the dispersed bait, it will interfere with egg hatchability. Since no new Pigeons are hatching, there will be a 50% reduction in pigeon population per year, and the ending flock should be between 5-10% of starting numbers.

Where to install feeders?

Designed for use in urban areas with high Pigeon populations and buildings that attract large flocks, which is best placed on a rooftop. OvoControl is a modern, intelligent alternative toward reducing the Pigeon population.

Ovocontrol is suitable for medium to heavy populations of birds.

Bird slides avoid pigeons roosting on the flat ledges

BIRD SLIDES

If a pigeon presence is a problem, there are usually ways of dealing with it which cause no harm to the birds, who simply want to eat, sleep, raise a family or pass the time of day in the only environment they know.

Pigeons look for flat surfaces for roosting and nesting. Encourage them to do these things elsewhere by making flat surfaces unavailable to them. With the correct application of the right product, roosting structures can be rendered virtually pigeon-free. There are a variety of devices that can be used to change flat nesting spots into inaccessible spaces and prevent pigeons from roosting in areas where they’re not wanted. 

How it works?

Attach wood or metal sheat (Birdslides) at a 45- to 60-degree angle over window ledges and other flat surfaces to keep pigeons away from landing.

Where to install?

Window ledges and other flat surfaces.

Decoy and Robops

DECOYS AND BIRD ROBOPS

Decoys are a time-tested solution both for attracting and deterring birds. Decoys that imitate predators increase the pressure on birds to evacuate a given area. Predator decoys are available as “passive” decoys to hang or position, and “active” decoys such as flying robops and bird decoys with controllable movements.

  • Most decoys can be positioned in various locations. Raven, Eagle, Owl and Kestrel decoys can be hung almost anywhere. They move in the wind, giving  the impression of a hunter searching for prey.
  • Woodpecker decoys signal to other woodpeckers that a given area is “occupied.” As these birds are very territorial, the facades can be effectively protected from woodpeckers.
  • For agricultural applications, the predator kite consists of a 9.6m long fiberglass rod, with a 1.11 m wingspan predator decoy attached. The decoy moves freely in the wind.
  • Robop prey dummy, which automatically executes movements with wings and head while playing raptor screams. Robop is so lifelike that prey birds have been seen trying to attack it in self-defense.
  • Birdraptor and Bird-X Drone are flying raptor dummies, which are controlled remotely. They are extremely effective and suitable for regular, short-term use for dispersing large flocks. This makes them particularly suited for use in airports or landfills.

Decoys and robop birds are suitable for low to medium populations of birds.

Visual solutions avoid pigeons roosting

VISUAL SOLUTIONS

Birds are highly visual creatures, more than almost any other group of animals, and because of this react reflexively to anzthing that disturbs their visual sense.

Laser Solutions

Studies have shown that birds’ eyes are particularly sensitive to green light, at wavelengths of ca. 525 nm. Laser solutions exploit this sensitivity. We provide a comprehensive market overview of available laser models.

Eagle Eye System

This spinning mirror reflects the rays of the sun or artificial lights; this, in turn, bewilders and irritates birds until they flee. Its curved shape and spinning behavior allow the Eagle Eye to protect large areas.

Acoustic solutions avoid pigeons roosting

ACOUSTIC SOLUTIONS

When physical deterrents are not an option, then take advantage of birds’ reaction to disturbing sounds.

Audible Acoustic Solutions

Audible bird control devices replay a combination of attack calls of predators and distress calls of prey, convincing birds that they are in danger and need to flee.

Ultrasonic Acoustic Solutions

Acoustic methods are effective, but can irritate more than just birds. Ultrasonic Solutions use frequences which birds can hear, but the human ear cannot.

Wire systems avoid pigeons roosting on the ledges

WIRE SYSTEMS

Wires provide a means of deterrence that is not only highly effective and affordable, but also inconspicuous. Because birds can only roost when they have a flat surface or a firm grip, they are unable to perch on thin, elastic stainless steel wires. This is effective solution for all types of residential and commercial properties.

How it works?

The height of wire systems is set at 110 mm, the ideal height for deterring pigeons and other birds of similar size. However, this height can be adjusted for any species of concern.

Wire systems consist of one or more thin (0.54mm) stainless steel wires attached by springs to steel pins, which are in turn secured to a base. An additional wire set at a lower height prevents birds from flying underneath the system.

The wires are set taught enough that birds cannot fit between them, but not so tight that they can perch on top of them. When the only two options are becoming entangled or being unable to balance, birds have no choice but to land elsewhere.

Where to install?

Changing the number of wires allows the system to cover various widths of potential perches, ranging from pipes, window ledges, roof ledges, exterior walls, railings, beams, gutters and handrails to broad eaves.

Wire systems are suitable for medium to heavy populations of birds.

Wire mesh

WIRE MESH

Installing bird proofing materials is the most effective way to keep the birds away from solar panels. The wire mesh is designed to protect solar panels by preventing pigeons from accessing the area beneath solar panels. Ensuring maximum efficiency is maintained by your solar panel.

How it works?

The UV treated solar clips that come with the mesh attach the mesh to the solar panels without piercing them, the system is designed to protect the integrity of solar panels. The solar panel bird deterrent mesh creates a physical barrier to keep birds from accessing and nesting in the area beneath the solar arrays.

Where to install?

Around solar pannels.

There are different types of wire mesh that are designed to enclose windows and buildings gapes where pigeons may build a nest.

Pigeons welfare:

If you know there are pigeon’s nest under solar panels or around your buildings, let them raise their babies and fly off, then close the gaps. It takes about 30 days to them to get out of nest and then you ready to go, if possible let this time over then close off the gaps, if not ask related pigeon welfare group get involve and take pigeons with babies away.

It is exrtemly inhumane to destroy chicks or close off the building gaps while nest with chicks are still there. Never let pest controller remove them and never get fooled by them saying they relocate birds, they will never do that and it is obvious what their destiny would be, death by dislocating neck or gas chamber.

Wire meshes are not harmfull and usefull to any size of flock. The advantage of wire mesh is that birds do not trapped in them, the same way they do in netting mesh.

Electrical systems avoid pigeons roosting on the ledges

ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

Electrical deterrent systems work on the same principle as an electric fence. Shock systems lay flat on a buildings ledges and sills making it completely discreet. 

There are versions with both upright and profile supports, along with specialized models for specific applications. The systems are either solar powered or plugged in.

How it works?

It’s not designed to hurt or kill Pigeons in any manner. When Pigeons land, it simply sends a slight jolt letting them know this is not an ideal place to land. Since Pigeons communicate and flock together, we trust the message will be well received by the others.

Where to install?

The shock tracks are practical devices for long and narrow spaces, such as buildings ledges and sills, rooflines, which are common places for pigeons, starlings and sparrows to perch. 

Wire systems are suitable for medium to heavy populations of birds.

Pigeon guano removal

PIGEON GUANO REMOVAL & POWER-WASHING

Although some commercial contractors will offer the client cleaning works on the basis that guano can be a health hazard, in reality cleaning is for aesthetic and practical reasons rather than to control disease.

Much is made of the potential to contract a disease from contact with pigeon droppings, but this is often over exaggerated and the likelihood of a human being contracting a disease from contact with pigeons or their excrement is very low and certainly no higher than having contact with your cat. In the main it is the media that have perpetuated this hype for profit. The media needs to sell newspapers and the pest control industry needs to sell its services. In both cases the public is sometimes misled. Most experts are of the opinion that human contact with pigeons and/or their excrement is no more harmful than contact with a caged bird or any other family pet. The only way in which pigeon guano can usually have a detrimental effect on human health is where an individual who has a pre-existing respiratory condition comes into contact with very well dried guano. In these cases it is possible that the inhalation of dust, created when well-dried guano are disturbed, may irritate the bronchial passages. In almost every situation “dampening down” the droppings with water before the commencement of cleaning will prevent the creation of dust. If you are unable to soak the droppings to eliminate the dust then simply wear a dust mask.

Before cleaning works start a full site inspection must be undertaken to highlight any potential dangers for the workforce (this is particularly relevant with derelict buildings) and to ascertain if there are any pigeon squabs in nest present. Where there is a large-scale roost there will almost certainly be squabs.

  • Once all the nests containing dependent young have been identified a wildlife expert must be contacted. They will take the young all dependent birds for hand rearing.
  • For large sites with significant numbers of nests, wildlife groups will normally be happy to attend the site before guano removal operations commence and remove  dependent birds. Pigeons breed all year round and so there will never be a time when pigeon droppings can be removed without young dependent birds in site.
  • Then cleaning operation can then start without interruption.  
  • On removal of the young it is also important to immediately block any entry points otherwise the problem will simply re-appear.
  • Whether it is internal or external, ensure you invest in protective clothing and PP3 masks to give the protection.
  • Cleaning pigeon droppings are similar to any other type of cleaning work in external areas. Large areas can be cleaned quickly, providing you have the right equipment. For the removal of dry guano from windowsills, ledges and architectural features you can use a paint scraper which is an ideal tool—spraying the Guanao with water before removal.
  • It will not only soften the guano and make it easier to remove but will also reduce dust when the guano is disturbed. Inhaling the dust is very dangerous. When all the pigeon droppings have been removed surfaces can be washed down with hot water and a scrubbing brush.
  • Once an area is cleaned thoroughly, it must be allowed to dry completely before installing deterrents.
Spikes and Nettings

SPIKS

The use of pigeon spikes is an anti-welfare way to scare off pigeons. Not only pigeons but also protected species are harmed by these spines. Many pigeons can not avoid spikes due to speed fly or darkness. Pigeon spikes are a legalized form of cruelty to animals. 

Spikes and Nettings

NETTINGS

Most nets are attached unprofessionally and are therefore a danger to the animals. Most of them torn and worn after awhile and due to lack of proper maintenance, causing pigeons and the other wildlives become stuck into that.