Pigeons return to the same ledges year after year. Physical proofing works because it removes the place to land, rather than relying on scaring birds off.
Feral pigeons are creatures of habit. Once a bird has found a dry ledge with a good view and a food source nearby, it will roost and nest there repeatedly, and its young learn the same spot. Cleaning the droppings away does not change this, because the ledge is still attractive. Scaring devices tend to lose effect as the birds get used to them.
Watnall is a village surrounded by open countryside, so the buildings that attract pigeons are often not houses at all but barns, farm sheds, garage blocks, workshops and the roofs of small commercial units. Open-sided buildings and old outbuildings are especially inviting, offering shelter and plenty of beams. Spilled grain or feed in the area can keep birds nearby all year round.
Wild birds are protected, and while feral pigeons can be controlled under general licences in certain circumstances, it is unlawful to harm nesting birds and their young outside those limits. For that reason, proofing is normally the sound route. It excludes birds without hurting them, and it is normally done outside the main nesting period, or when nests are confirmed empty. A professional will check the position before any work starts.
Keep feed stores and animal troughs covered where you can, since easy food is what holds a flock in the area. Proofing the building and tidying the food supply together gives far better results than either on its own.
Pigeon droppings are acidic enough to damage stonework, metal and roof materials over time. They block gutters and downpipes, create slip hazards on walkways and can carry organisms that cause illness if dust is inhaled during dry clean-up. Cleaning should be done carefully, with suitable protective equipment, before proofing goes on.
A lasting job depends on the right system for the building. A flat commercial roof, a pitched barn and a row of garages each need something different, and a quick fix that fails in the first gale costs more in the end.
We will inspect the building, explain the options and carry out the work lawfully. Our commercial surveys are free, and you will get a free written inspection report. Call 0115 937 5117 to arrange a visit.
Pigeons are adaptable and quickly learn that a static or repeating deterrent poses no threat. Physical proofing works because it removes the place to land and roost altogether.
Only in limited circumstances. Wild birds and their active nests have legal protection, so check the position first and do not disturb nests with eggs or young. Proofing is normally carried out once the site is clear.
Tell us what you have seen and where, and we will come back to you. Prices are fixed and there is no call-out charge.
