Pigeon control- Why are they such a pest?

We recently had a pigeon problem at home. They had built a nest outside our bedroom on the ceiling ledge. My husband finally decided to do something about it when he woke up one morning covered in bites which turned out to be lice bites from the pigeons! Yikes! Well it has led me to write this blog.

Pigeons are just about the biggest pest bird problem in Australia. Originally from Europe, feral pigeons otherwise known as “ city doves” nest and roost on many different structures and deface and damage property. They flock as a team so once they come they often come in large numbers.
Here is some information on their roosting and nesting habits.

Pigeons prefer lofty spaces which offer shelter, water and safety from predators.
Today’s pigeons have grown dependant on humans for these sites. They need around 30ml of water per day. This is why they love roof gutters and roof tops with unsealed water tanks.
They also enjoy the heat generated by solar panels on rooftops, heating units, fans, electric transformers and other areas that provide warmth.

For food they scavenge outside open air restaurants and open bins.
Abandoned and poorly maintained buildings and attics are also a favourite breeding spot for pigeons. They build their nests from sticks, straw and droppings and will re-use them time and time again, each time adding more droppings which reinforces the nest making them bigger until they resemble mud nests.

Nests can be found on ledges, under rooftop structures and window ledges of buildings. City buildings and ledges mimic the rocky cliffs once inhabited by their ancestors in Europe. They gain access through broken windows, gaps, openings and loose vents.

Closing off access areas, eliminating access to water and food and maintaining property by cleaning ledges and guttering will substantially cut down your risk of acquiring a pigeon problem or infestation.

If pigeons are a problem on your property contact us at Bird Control Australia for ways to deter them. Our Bird Control devices substantially reduce their comfort levels causing them to move on.