Pigeon Identification & Prevention

What are pigeons?

Pigeons are a very common pest bird, especially in urban areas; in fact, they are often referred to as “rats with wings.” Pigeons are technically domesticated birds, but many have escaped and created large wild populations.

Due to their large populations and the fact that they are always being around, it is easy to overlook these birds. But paying attention and removing these birds from your property is important because of their dangerous and destructive habits. Pigeons grow to between 11 and 15 inches long and have a light gray body with a darker grey head, shoulders, and breast. They also have two identifying dark bars going across their wings and tail.

Are pigeons dangerous?

Pigeons are unwanted on our properties because they are such dangerous pests. The biggest issue with these pests is the number of diseases they can spread that make people ill. In addition to the diseases they spread, pigeons also carry and spread parasites like fleas, mites, and ticks. Parasites also spread a wide variety of diseases that can make both people and our pets ill.

Destructive is another word regularly used to describe pigeons. Their nests and roosting habits cause damage to things like:

• Roof eaves
• Gutters
• Electrical equipment
• Fans
• Ventilation systems
• The exterior of buildings

Also, the droppings that pigeons leave behind pile up on the ground and create slip and fall hazards.

Why do I have a pigeon problem?

Birds, like other animals, are attracted to properties that provide them with sources of food, water, and shelter. They have learned wherever there are people and buildings, there will be something to eat, drink, and a place to rest. Pigeons in urban areas roost on the roofs of buildings and feed on almost anything we do, making them frustrating pests to deal with around outdoor eating areas, trash cans, and garden areas.

Where will I find pigeons?

Pigeons breed throughout the year, with spring and fall being peak breeding seasons. They are monogamous, so pigeons live in groups of equal numbers of males and females. These pest birds are active year-round and will make themselves at home in a variety of places that are less than ideal for home and business owners to deal with, including:

• The roofs of homes and other buildings
• On church steeples
• The rafters of commercial warehouses and garages
• In feed mills

Other places you are likely to find pigeons include parks, fields, under bridges, and around outdoor dining areas.

Pigeons are problematic in urban areas because there are so many people and buildings in a small space to take advantage of. The more food and shelter available, the more pigeons will flock to an area.

How do I get rid of pigeons?

Pigeons are difficult and persistent pests to deal with. The best way to eliminate them from your Las Vegas property is to partner with a professional. At Anderson Pest Control, we will always go the extra mile to ensure that your pigeon problems are solved. Through the placement of physical barriers, the removal of nests, the installation of safe and effective exclusion measures, and more, we will protect your property from damaging pigeons.

At Anderson Pest Control, we are a family-owned company that strives to provide our customers with a reliable solution to their pest problems. If you are ready to learn more about our pigeon control solutions, reach out to Anderson Pest Control today!

How can I prevent pigeons in the future?

In addition to our home pest control and commercial pest control services, protect your property from pests with the following prevention tips:

• Never feed birds on your property.
• Keep locking lids on trash cans and compost bins to keep pigeons out of them.
• If you have gardens on your property, regularly harvest them.
• Get rid of water sources by clearing out clogged gutters, removing birdbaths from your property, and fixing areas on your property that allow rainwater to puddle.
• Cut tree branches back from your roofline that can shelter pigeons. 
• Use a motion-activated sprinkler system to scare away pigeons.