Feral pigeons congregate in large numbers in locations that provide access to food and shelter. Consequently, busy and densely populated towns such as Stevenage in Hertfordshire have become ideal habitats for pigeons seeking food and shelter. Their presence brings with it many problems for pedestrians and business owners for a variety of reasons.
Why do pigeons thrive in towns like Stevenage?
Birds choose where to roost based on the locations ability to provide sustenance for their survival. Many birds prefer the shelter and natural abundance of rural areas, where human populations are fewer, pest birds, such as pigeons, have adapted to thrive in densely populated areas. They don’t mind crowds of people and benefit by scavenging among the rubbish humans leave behind. They nest in seemingly unthinkable places like gutters, drains, chimneys, and even on roof ledges. Towns such as Stevenage offer these in abundance with many high rise buildings, water supply from fountains and fast food outlets all providing shelter and a constant food supply for them.
Does Stevenage have a pigeon problem?
Stevenage does face problems with pigeons, but it is not plagued by flocks of birds like London. There are however many birds scavenging in the town square which brings with it problems from accumulation of droppings. Pigeons can also damage buildings by roosting in and around them.
Consequently, effective bird control measures are essential for towns. Bird control encompasses methods aimed at removing pigeons from buildings and deterring their return. Fortunately, harming pigeons is illegal in the UK, and there exist numerous humane strategies to keep them at bay.
Is a pigeon infestation dangerous?
An untreated pigeon infestation can cause significant harm with the consequences extending beyond property damage. They also pose a health hazard to the population of towns they inhabit.
Feral pigeons can carry diseases such as Chlamydia psittaci or Psittacosis, which can cause Ornithosis in humans, a potentially fatal infection from the pathogens and harmful bacteria left behind in pigeon droppings.
Surprisingly pigeon droppings can become airborne when they dry out. Those with compromised immune systems or young children can be vulnerable to infection from the airborne particles. The accumulation of droppings on pavements and steps can potentially become slip hazards and nesting materials can cause blockages in ventilation systems and chimneys posing a fire risk.
Apart from the damage they can inflict and the health risks they pose to our well-being, pigeons can also be a general nuisance as they search for food amongst us.
How can I remove pigeons from my premises in Stevenage?
Dealing with pigeon problems on commercial properties in Stevenage is essential to maintain your business reputation, minimise costs, and address health hazards. Preventive measures to avoid pigeon infestations is necessary and there are several proven methods of pigeon control that can deter pigeons and prevent them from being a continued pest.
Falconry for bird pest control: An age-old and humane solution which can be used to address pest bird issues. By introducing falcons or other birds of prey to regularly fly over the affected site for a period of several months, a clear message is sent to the pigeons that the area is dangerous territory. Given time, the pigeons will recognise the threat and vacate the premises. Falconry is safe, reliable, humane, and environmentally friendly, and has been successfully employed to rid buildings of pigeons for many years.
Bird spikes
Bird spikes provide a humane method of pigeon control by preventing them from perching on roofs, gutters, chimneys, signage, and balconies. These spikes, consisting of blunt steel rods attached to a polycarbonate base, are designed to deter pigeons rather than harm them. Bird spikes are commonly used on both commercial properties and private residences.
Bird Netting
Bird or pigeon netting is a cost-effective and long-term method of bird control widely used on commercial buildings in urban areas like Stevenage. It deters pigeons from perching and nesting on buildings. Bird netting is typically made from polyethylene wire and comes in various shapes, colours, and sizes. It is stretched to create a barrier and secured with high-quality steel fittings.
Remove the supply of food
While it may be instinctive for humans to feed hungry pigeons, it only encourages larger flocks and worsens the issue, particularly in busy towns. To address the problem, it is essential to discourage feeding pigeons. Also, domestic bird feeders can attract more pigeons. The simple lesson is to refrain from feeding birds if they become a nuisance to your business or residential property.
Implementing these measures will aid in deterring pest birds from your business premises while prioritising humane and environmentally friendly practices.
Contact FurBeGone Pest Control
FurBeGone Pest Control only uses humane methods to remove and deter pests from your home or business. Our team of experienced pest control specialists will assess the severity of the infestation and recommend the best course of action to remove the pests and prevent future infestations.
We also provide ongoing maintenance contracts to help ensure that your property remains pest-free. Our goal is to provide our clients with a comprehensive and effective pest control solution that is tailored to their specific needs.
If you’re experiencing pest problems in your loft or attic, contact FurBeGone Pest Control today. Our team of experts will be happy to provide you with a free, no-obligation quote and answer any questions you may have about our services.
FurBeGone Pest Control offer a free survey before, and treatment is undertaken. We cover Stevenage, Letchworth, Hitchin, and surrounding villages and treat all types of pests including insects, rodents and wildlife. We are also bed bug specialists and provide 100% guarantee on our treatments.
Contact us through our website here or for 24-hour callout please call us on 01438 387005.
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