Pigeons
Feral or town pigeons have originated from the rock dove,
dovecote and domestic pigeons. Feral pigeons are present throughout
Britain, most frequently in urban areas where they have adapted
well to the artificial cliffs provided by buildings and other
structures. They depend largely on the general public for their
food. Because of this dependence, feral pigeons have become a pest,
fouling buildings, pavements and parkland, contaminating stored
food and transmitting diseases. Much of the damage caused by feral
pigeons arises from their infestation of buildings, food stores,
lofts in factories and the private home.
Fouling of buildings and monuments frequently occurs at places
where birds roost. The acidic droppings react with chemicals in the
stonework and causes erosion of the surface. Accumulations of
pigeon droppings can become infested with mites and insects, which
are pests of stored food products. Some feral pigeons are capable
of breeding throughout the year; however, the optimum period occurs
between March and July. They build nests on and within
buildings.
Feral pigeons rely mainly on spillage at food premises or scraps,
bread, cakes and bird seed given to them by the public. The
birds normally feed in flocks and have become highly
efficient at taking food when it is left unattended, patiently
waiting nearby until the area is undisturbed. Some feral pigeons
have been shown to carry organisms which cause Salmonellosis and
Ornithosis (a mild form of Psittacosis); although there are proven
cases of man catching these diseases from direct or indirect
contact with feral pigeons, such risks are slight.
Control
Damage to stored products can be largely prevented by the
proper proofing of warehouses at doors, windows and ventilators.
The fouling of buildings may be reduced by the use of repellent
devices. Various repellents are available including jelly-like
substances which makes the surface where applied unattractive to
the roosting bird. Loading bays around factories and shopping
centres should be kept clean at all times but particularly at the
end of the day and at weekends. Plastic strips hung in doorways
deter pigeons from entering but may not be completely successful.
Windows, doors, eaves and balconies can be proofed by plastic
netting stretched across or wire placed along ledges a few inches
above the surface. The most important factor determining the size
of a pigeon population is food, and the best long-term solution to
the problem of feral pigeons is to restrict its availability. Avoid
dropping food waste as litter, clean up spillage areas, keep lids
on bins and secure waste bags.
Remember - no food - no birds!
Pest Control
Melton Borough Council does not offer a service to treat pigeons.
However, the Pest Control Officer is able to give free advice on
pigeon control and on the steps which can be taken to discourage
the congregation of pigeons on buildings. Advice on control and
proofing is also available from professional pest control companies
many of whom are listed in Yellow Pages, The Thomson Directory,
etc.
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