
Having problems with pigeons?
Additional Information
Bird control is essential for maintaining health, safety, and structural integrity in both residential and commercial properties. Birds such as pigeons carry harmful diseases, including Ornithosis, Listeria, and E. coli, which pose risks to humans. These diseases spread not only through direct contact with the birds but also through their droppings. When dry, pigeon droppings break down into airborne particles, which can be inhaled, leading to respiratory issues such as psittacosis.
Health and Structural Risks of Bird Infestations
Pigeon droppings are highly acidic and can corrode metal, stone, and brickwork. Over time, this damage weakens structures, leading to costly repairs. Bird nests can block chimneys, flues, and gutters, creating risks such as carbon monoxide buildup and water damage. Blocked gutters cause water to overflow, which can seep into walls and foundations, resulting in damp issues and structural weakening.
In business settings, excessive bird fouling creates an unappealing environment. The sight and smell of bird droppings give the impression of poor hygiene, deterring customers and damaging a company’s reputation. Restaurants, retail stores, and office buildings must address bird control to maintain a clean and professional image.
Effective Bird Control Solutions
Several bird-proofing methods can prevent pigeons and other birds from nesting or roosting on properties:
- Bird Netting: A long-term solution that physically blocks birds from accessing specific areas such as rooftops, balconies, and loading bays.
- Spring Wire Systems: Tensioned wires create an unstable landing surface, deterring birds from settling on ledges.
- Bird Spikes: Placed on ledges, beams, and signs, these spikes prevent birds from perching without harming them.
- Bird Meshing: Similar to netting, meshing is ideal for protecting vents, chimneys, and openings from nesting birds.
- Bird Shock Systems: These low-voltage systems provide a harmless shock, discouraging birds from landing and encouraging them to relocate.
Preventative Measures and Maintenance
Regular maintenance reduces the risk of bird infestations. Property owners should remove food sources, such as open bins and outdoor food waste, as pigeons thrive in areas with easy access to scraps. Cleaning droppings and nesting materials promptly prevents the buildup of waste that attracts more birds. Sealing entry points, such as gaps in roofs and walls, stops birds from nesting inside buildings.
If birds have already become a persistent problem, professional pest control services offer expert solutions. Specialists assess the situation, recommend tailored deterrents, and ensure compliance with legal regulations regarding bird control.
Conclusion
Unchecked bird infestations pose significant health, safety, and structural risks. Businesses and homeowners must take proactive steps to prevent damage, avoid health hazards, and maintain a clean environment. Implementing effective bird-proofing methods and seeking professional assistance when needed ensures long-term protection from nuisance birds.
Remedy:
Pigeon prevention, proofing and control are a highly specialised skill, requiring specialist equipment and tools. Control of Pigeons through population reduction techniques is generally both less desirable and less effective than removing their food sources or blocking off sites where they perch or roost. The latter technique, known as proofing, is now used extensively.
For proofing, we will use methods such as barriers, spikes, nets and wire to great effect. More recently active systems like avishock strips, audible scarers and optical gels have been used to create negative associations in birds wishing to land or roost on buildings.
All of these methods of proofing have their merits and some can offer a stronger and more lasting deterrent, but as with any method of control, they may become less effective over an extended period of time. For a heavy Pigeon infestation, we may have to employ methods of control such as shooting, trapping.
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Location :
4 Compton Close, Didcot, Oxfordshire, OX11 7HD
Email :
office@shire-pest-solutions.co.uk
Phone :
01235399073