Pigeons

Pigeons

Are pigeons a health hazard?

Pigeons are regarded as unacceptable, especially in large numbers.

They are regarded as potential transmitters of disease.

Are they a problem?

Problems may arise when pigeons roost on buildings as they foul from ledges and other nesting or roosting areas.

Their droppings cause an unsightly mess and may also cause ‘slip’ hazards on walkways and pavements.

A BUILD UP OF PIGEON DROPPINGS MAY PROVIDE A FOOD SOURCE FOR A RANGE OF FLY SPECIES.

PARTICULARLY in PIGEON LOFTS.

THEIR PARASITES - FLEAS AND MITES CAN CAUSE NUISANCE TO HUMANS.

Pigeons can also cause a noise nuisance to people living and working in the area.

What happens if we feed the pigeons?

Many people feed pigeons.

The number of pigeons attracted to an area depends on the food available.

If pigeons are being fed, more pigeons will be attracted to that area.

All pigeons require nesting and roosting sites (e.g. balconies, window ledges & roof areas of surrounding buildings) as well as a reliable food source.

It is vital that food sources for pigeons are kept to a minimum.

There have been a number of cases where people have been prosecuted for causing a health risk by repeatedly feeding pigeons.

How can they be controlled?

If pigeons begin to roost on part of your property a number of remedial measures can be taken:

i) Attempts can be made to ‘scare’ the pigeons away and to let them know that it is not a suitable nesting place (e.g. fixing a piece of string with silver foil attached or a plastic carrier bag to the area).

ii) You can remove any food sources available to them, in the immediate area.

iii) There are many products available to professional pest controllers that prevent pigeons from landing on areas such as ledges, roofs, balconies.
It is best to seek expert advice on these products.

If you are a housing executive tenant the maintenance department may be able to give you advice on how to deal with this problem.

If you are a private owner/ tenant, you may have to contact a private Pest Control Company who would normally be willing to give you a quote for pigeon proofing at your property.

All pigeon proofing work should be carried out by an experience professional.

This is due to this pests’ ability to adapt to obstructions.

Seek professional advice from the Council’s Environmental Health Service if you require any assistance.

Warning: Use biocides safely. Always read the label and product information before use.