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Pigeons are common around parks, buildings, and farm yards. They feed primarily on grain but will feed on garbage.
Pigeons are gray with a whitish rump, two black bars on secondary wing feathers, and a broad black band on their tail. There may be white, grey, tan and blackish variations to this coloration. Their average weight is 13 ounces.
The common pigeon was introduced into this country from Europe and have become the most common pest bird. They live for up to 15 years and mate for life. Breeding can occur during any season with 1-2 eggs laid per clutch.
Droppings can deface buildings, spread disease and produce odors. They can also introduce mites and ticks into a building that can bother people. Feral pigeons are not protected by federal law.
Pigeons are relatively easy to spot and identify. Visual observation is all that is necessary to determine whether pigeons have become established in an area.
In order to successfully control pigeons, it is important to realize that feeding them will only encourage their inhabiting a site. Therefore it is important to eliminate all sources of food including hand feeding.
Exclusion is a primary means of managing pigeon problems. Blocking access to indoor roosts and nesting areas by screening vents, eaves, and windows will reduce the rate of establishment of pigeons into an area.
Plastic or nylon netting can be used to discourage roosting as can changing ledge angles to over 45 degrees. Sheet metal, wood, stone, and other materials can be fastened to ledges to accomplish the desired angle. Porcupine wire can be used to discourage landing. They are composed of spring-tempered nickel stainless steel prongs with sharp points extending outward at all angles. The prongs are attacked to a solid base that is installed on window wills, ledges, eaves, roof peaks, ornamental architecture to prevent landing or roosting.
Five Cage Traps can be a very effective tool to reduce populations of pigeons roosting or nesting on undesirable sites.
There are many chemicals that can be used as poison baits or contact kills. Their use usually requires special permits and will not be a good choice. If pigeon problems become difficult to manage, contact a certified pest control company that specializes in bird control. Refer to the appendix for further information.
Prevention and Control of Wildlife Damage, Great Plants Agricultural Council Wildlife Resources Committee publication E-35 "Pigeons (Rock Doves)" by Fred R. Courtsal. 7 pp.
