Pigeons cause heavy soiling on facades. Their droppings are not only a breeding ground for mold but can also destroy rocks. It is therefore important that the animals do not multiply uncontrollably.
Pigeons like to nest where they are not welcome
Why there are so many street pigeons
The pigeons that live in cities are descended from feral domestic pigeons. It is considered to be one of the most successful vertebrates to gain a foothold in the city habitat. Due to the rich food supply, they have developed massive populations in recent decades. Their incubation period is short at 18 days, so a pair of pigeons can raise up to twelve youngsters a year.
Refrain from feeding
Supplementary feeding has no advantages whatsoever, but negative consequences for the birds, because the feed is unsuitable and causes deficiency symptoms and diseases. Urban populations are home to many diseased animals, which in the wild fall prey to predators. Pigeons are considered stress breeders that depend on constant food conditions. If a source of food suddenly disappears, they invest their last energy in the production of as many offspring as possible. These should secure the stock.
What you can do
Whether measures to protect against pigeons make sense depends on the motivation of the pigeon. If the animals are incubating a clutch or feeding offspring, don't let spikes stop them. They will try all ways to get to their nest. Keeping away methods are more successful if there are enough alternatives for the pigeons in the area. However, these only serve to combat symptoms and have proven to be unsuccessful in the long term.
Potential solutions:
- Closing of entry openings
- Bevel window sills
- Store leftovers out of reach
- Defense with ultrasound
- magnetic systems that spray odoriferous substances
Inappropriate measures
Devices with sharp spikes, electrical installations or improperly hung nets pose a risk of injury. It is not uncommon for questionable measures such as the shooting and poisoning of numerous birds to be carried out. Such ill-considered actions only improve things in the short term. It has been shown that stocks have built up the swarm within a few weeks after a reduction to 20 percent of their size. In some cases the problem has increased.