Pigeons

Pigeon guano can lead to respiratory problems within humans!

  • Feral pigeons are found worldwide and across the UK
  • They settle in mainly urban areas
  • They are largely dependent on humans for food
  • Feral pigeons can breed throughout the year
  • Peak breeding season is March to July
  • Nests are built on buildings or other structures
  • The young birds become independent in around 30 to 37 days
  • Feral pigeons may have 4 to 9 broods a year, raising two young each time
  • They are considered a pest as they foul building facades and pavements
  • It is also thought they could transfer diseases such as ornithosis and salmonellosis to humans but as yet, there is no scientific research to back this up
  • Feral pigeons can be controlled but only by humane methods
  • There are two eradication methods – shooting and trapping
  • Many people prefer prevention measures such as bird proofing

DIAGNOSIS

Nuisance scale: 8/10 HIGH

Can cause damage if roosting in sufficient numbers. Noise, mites, can lead to allergy, guano fungus can lead to breathing difficulties in humans. This fungus can lead to structural issues, especially on heritage buildings.

Hazard: 8/10 HIGH

Incidents of disease transfer minimal, more a nuisance than a hazard – depends on scale of the problem. 

HOW WE TREAT THIS PEST

Ssfe Pest Control certainly do not underestimate the problems these pest birds can cause our customers. From sleepless nights to adverse effects on reputation we will tailor each job to our customers exact needs.

VITAL STATISTICS

Length: 33cm

Weight: Up to 560g

Description: Plumage varies from blue-grey to various blues and reds, to some that are almost black. Most have double black wing bars.

INTERESTING FACTS

  • The rock pigeon, the ancestor to the feral pigeon, was the first bird to be domesticated 6,000 years ago
  • In some countries, pigeon poop – guano – is a key agricultural ingredient
  • Pigeons were first kept for meat but fell out of favour when it was found chickens could be ‘mass produced’ more easily
  • Pigeons were used as message carriers in many conflicts around the globe
  • Estimates of pigeon populations in cities vary but are thought to be around 12,000 or more