Pigeons and How to Deal with Them

Pigeons are a common sight in London, often perched on rooftops, ledges, and public landmarks. While they may seem harmless or even charming to some, these birds can pose significant problems for property owners, businesses, and public spaces. Understanding why pigeons are problematic and how professional pest control companies deal with them is essential to maintaining a safe, clean, and hygienic environment. In this blog, we will explore the issues pigeons cause and how a specialist pigeon control company in London can help.

Why Are Pigeons a Problem in London?

London’s urban environment provides the perfect habitat for pigeons. With abundant food sources and numerous sheltered nesting areas, pigeons thrive in cities. Unfortunately, their presence often leads to a range of issues. One of the most immediate problems is the mess they create. Pigeon droppings are highly acidic and can corrode building materials, damage paintwork, and clog drainage systems. Over time, this can result in costly repairs for building owners and businesses.

Hygiene is another significant concern. Pigeon droppings carry bacteria, fungi, and parasites that can pose a health risk to humans. Diseases such as histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, and psittacosis are all associated with bird droppings. In public spaces, heavy pigeon activity increases the likelihood of people coming into contact with these potential health hazards.

Pigeons can also be a nuisance for businesses, particularly those in the hospitality industry. Outdoor seating areas for restaurants and cafes can quickly become unattractive to customers when pigeons flock around, scavenging for food. Their presence can harm a company’s reputation and discourage repeat business. Furthermore, pigeons nesting on rooftops or in roof spaces can cause noise problems, block ventilation systems, and even damage insulation and wiring.

Why DIY Pigeon Control is Often Ineffective

Some property owners attempt to control pigeon problems themselves, often with limited success. Simply scaring pigeons away or removing food sources may offer a temporary solution, but these birds are highly adaptable and tend to return. DIY solutions often fail to address the root of the problem: access to roosting and nesting sites. Without professional help, pigeons will often continue to cause damage and create a mess.

Another issue is safety. Climbing onto rooftops or ledges to remove nests or install deterrents is dangerous without the right equipment and training. Handling pigeon droppings and nesting materials also poses health risks, especially without protective clothing and proper cleaning solutions. This is why professional pest control companies in London are the recommended solution for dealing with persistent pigeon issues.

Professional Solutions for Pigeon Control in London

A professional pigeon control company in London offers a range of effective, long-term solutions tailored to the specific needs of your property. The first step in solving any pigeon problem is a thorough inspection and assessment. Specialists identify how pigeons are using the property, locate nesting sites, and determine the best course of action to prevent further infestations.

One of the most common methods used by pigeon control experts is bird proofing. This involves installing physical barriers that prevent pigeons from landing or nesting on buildings. Bird spikes are often used on ledges, signage, and rooflines to deter pigeons from perching. These spikes are humane and effective, as they do not harm the birds but make it uncomfortable for them to land. Another widely used method is bird netting, which is particularly effective for large open areas like warehouse roofs, courtyards, or balconies. Netting creates an impenetrable barrier, preventing pigeons from accessing these spaces entirely.

For properties where aesthetics are important, such as historic buildings or high-profile commercial premises, more discreet solutions may be employed. Bird wire systems or tensioned wires create subtle barriers that are almost invisible from a distance while effectively deterring pigeons. In addition, modern pigeon control techniques may include the use of optical gels, which create a visual deterrent for birds and discourage them from roosting on treated surfaces.

Another critical aspect of pigeon control is nest removal and cleaning. Professionals are equipped to safely remove pigeon nests, often located in hard-to-reach places, and carry out a thorough clean-up of droppings and debris. This process not only restores the appearance of the property but also reduces the risk of disease transmission. Often, specialist cleaning products are used to disinfect affected areas, ensuring they are safe for human use.

Humane Pigeon Control and the Law

It is essential to note that pigeons, like all wild birds in the UK, are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. This means that any control measures must be carried out humanely and within the law. Professional pest control companies are fully aware of these legal requirements and have the necessary training and licences to handle pigeon problems ethically and effectively. Their methods focus on prevention rather than harming the birds, ensuring compliance with UK wildlife regulations.

The Importance of Ongoing Maintenance

Even after pigeons have been removed and deterrents installed, regular maintenance is essential to keep properties pigeon-free. Over time, deterrents such as spikes and nets can degrade or become dislodged, reducing their effectiveness. A professional pigeon control service in London will often provide ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure your property remains protected in the long term. This proactive approach helps avoid recurring infestations and the associated costs of repairs and cleaning.

Choosing the Right Pigeon Control Company in London

When selecting a pigeon control company, it is crucial to choose one with experience and a strong reputation. Look for a business that offers tailored solutions, uses humane control methods, and has fully trained and insured technicians. Reviews and testimonials can give you an insight into the quality of service, while an initial site survey will demonstrate the company’s expertise and commitment to solving your specific problem.

A local London-based pigeon control company will also have a better understanding of the unique challenges faced by properties in the city, from historic buildings to modern high-rises. Their knowledge of urban pigeon behaviour, combined with access to the latest control technologies, makes them best placed to deliver effective and lasting solutions.

Conclusion

Pigeons are a common feature of London’s cityscape, but their presence can cause significant problems for property owners and businesses. From damaging buildings to posing health risks and deterring customers, pigeon infestations require prompt and effective action. While DIY methods often fail, professional pigeon control companies in London provide long-term, humane solutions to prevent and remove pigeons.

By choosing a specialist pest control provider, you can safeguard your property, protect public health, and maintain a clean, professional image. With the right approach, pigeons can be deterred effectively and ethically, ensuring your property remains free from the problems these birds can cause.

Contact Pigeon Control for Pigeon Removal

We provide a diverse array of pest control solutions to address the needs of homeowners and business owners, ensuring effective removal of pigeons and preventing their return.

Drawing upon our extensive expertise, we have found that employing a combination of methods provides excellent results in deterring pigeons from roosting on your property. Strategies such as falconry and the installation of bird spikes have proven to be highly effective.

With our range of services, we strive to provide holistic solutions that address the specific needs of home and business owners, ensuring effective pigeon control and long-lasting results.

Pigeon Control only uses humane methods to remove and deter pigeons from your home or business. Our team of experienced pigeon control specialists will assess the severity of the infestation and recommend the best course of action to remove the pigeons and prevent future infestations.

We also provide ongoing maintenance contracts to help ensure that your property remains pest-free. Our goal is to provide our clients with a comprehensive and effective pigeon control solution that is tailored to their specific needs.

If you’re experiencing pigeon problems, contact Pigeon Control today. Our team of experts will be happy to provide you with a free, no-obligation quote and answer any questions you may have about our services.

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