When I say “pest control,” what comes to mind? Many people think about treatments to keep creepy-
crawly insects at bay. Others think about removing rodents and preventing their return.
Very few folks equate pest control with pigeons. However, these birds are the very definition of a pest.
They overwhelm their environment, create health issues, and cause more physical damage than any
other bird species. No wonder they’re known by several derogatory names like “sky rats”, “bum
chickens”, and “flying bowel movements!”
Despite their destructive tendencies, these birds do have a certain charm. Who hasn’t chuckled at their
comical bobbing and weaving, or found joy in their gentle cooing song? But that charm is deceiving.
Like a roguish figure in a detective movie, their eccentric antics disguise behaviors that, when ignored,
can cause real trouble.
What’s so bad about pigeons? Turns out, there’s plenty. Let’s take a look at the problems they cause:
1: Pigeons are invasive, aggressive, and prolific
Feral pigeons adapt quickly to almost any environment they discover. Recreational sites, business
facilities, residential areas, and industrial zones are all the same to them. It’s almost impossible to name a
place where they can’t make a home.
Unlike a lot of wildlife, these birds like to be around people. But it’s not because they appreciate humans.
Instead they love taking advantage of the things people create. Pigeons nest on our buildings, roost in
our trees, and poach the variety of food sources we (often unwittingly) provide. With few exceptions, the
more settled the area, the more pigeons you’ll find! New York City, with an estimated 1 million pigeons, is
a great example!
As pigeon populations grow they drive more desirable bird species away. They do this by employing
aggressive tactics and eating every bit of food available. In the process they’ll also bully animals, waddle
over plants, and tear up gardens. Their hostile nature can extend to humans, especially when people
have something they want.
2: Pigeons generate a lot of toxic byproducts
Bodily waste is huge problem in pigeon colonies. A single bird produces twenty-five pounds of poop each
year. Remember the one million pigeons in New York City? That flock dumps 25 million pounds of toxins
annually onto one of the most densely populated cities in the world!
When it comes to relieving themselves, pigeons have no restraint. They drop feces whenever and
wherever they want. Nesting areas are particularly nasty. Waste can be found on the tops of skyscrapers,
the sidewalks below, across parks, in streets, on cars…you get the idea. Remember to keep your head
down or you may get a face full!
Each slimy dropping contains a host of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Studies reveal pigeons can transmit
over 60 different diseases, including many serious illnesses. Restaurants and businesses that handle
food must be especially diligent to keep properties pigeon-free. Because of the dangers these birds
present, health inspectors will quickly shut down operations when droppings are found. Officials can
suspend operations even if pigeons are not present but likely to come around.
3: Pigeons cause extensive property damage
As if being filled with pathogens isn’t enough, pigeon droppings are also very caustic. They contain
natural acids that, over time, can eat into almost any surface. Corrosive effects extend to paint, metal,
plastic, wood…even stone and concrete!
It’s logical then that long-term exposure can ruin roofs, signage, statuary, outdoor furniture, walkways,
and outdoor lighting. Perhaps worse, though, is that pigeon waste affects customer opinion. Unless
droppings are cleared and preventative measures put into place, your hard-won company brand could
suffer…a lot.
Pigeons also peck holes in walls, eaves, and windowsills while roosting and nesting. They scavenge all
manner of debris to construct their nests, dropping bits of material while in flight. Pieces are held
together with a sticky, tar-like dung that’s extremely durable when dry. Nests can block drains and
gutters, and are difficult to remove. Even if you’re able to pry one apart, the underlying surface will likely
be marred beyond recognition.
4: Pigeons are expensive to have around
Obviously the birds themselves don’t cost anything to acquire. They come on their own! But the damage
they can cause is crazy expensive. Their messes are difficult to remove, cleaning requires a lot of time
and strong chemicals, and the restoration process often requires a lot of back-breaking work.
Since byproducts of their habitation are legitimately hazardous, you shouldn’t attempt to clear a large
area without proper clothing and respiratory protection. Remember, these wastes are laden with germs.
For the sake of your health, we recommend contacting a professional restoration service to handle all but
the smallest jobs.
After debris and wastes are removed, you’ll almost certainly find physical damage that’s costly to repair
or replace. That’s especially true where pigeons have lived for many years.
Although prevention can be pricey, it’s your best alternative. Avoiding damage will always cost less than
removing a colony of birds, then cleaning, sanitizing, and repairing damage they’ve caused. Contact us if
you have questions about preventing pigeons from settling on your property. We’ll be glad to discuss the
topic with you.
