From the mess they leave behind to the potential health risks they pose, pigeons in Las Vegas and across the globe are a nuisance. Today, we’ll explore why pigeons are so common in cities, effective methods for deterring them from your home, and when it’s time to call in the professionals to keep your property protected.
Why Are Pigeons So Common in Cities Anyway?
Pigeons and other avian pests have been a part of human settlements for as long as recorded history can tell. Originally nesting in the nooks and crannies of rocky cliffs, pigeons have found human-made structures to be the perfect substitute for their natural habitats. The nooks and ledges of buildings provide the shelter they need to care for their young, and without the presence of natural predators, urban areas become ideal environments for these birds.
Interestingly, pigeons are known for being poor nest builders. Their nests often consist of just a few twigs and pieces of debris, a habit inherited from their ancestors who didn’t need sturdy nests in the crevices of cliffs. With the comforts of city life—ample food, shelter, and safety—it’s no wonder pigeons flock to urban centers, making them a common sight in places like Las Vegas.
How To Deter Pigeons From Your Home
There are several methods you can use to keep pigeons away from your property. One popular option is to use reflective objects. While we don’t fully understand why pigeons and other birds tend to avoid shiny materials, it’s a well-documented phenomenon. Reflective tape or even aluminum foil can help create an environment that pigeons find unappealing without causing any harm.
Another effective deterrent is pigeon spikes. Despite their intimidating appearance, pigeon spikes are a humane solution that prevents pigeons from landing on surfaces by creating an uneven, jagged area they prefer to avoid. For a more classic approach, some people opt for fake owls. Owls are natural predators of pigeons, and some decoys even feature rotating heads for added realism, which can be enough to scare pigeons away. Just make sure the cat can’t reach it.
Is Humane DIY Removal Possible?
Humane pigeon removal can be a difficult process. Despite their skittish behavior, pigeons can be quite plucky when threatened. While other approaches exist, humane pigeon removal is best left to experts who have the training and specialized equipment needed to remove them quickly and effectively.
Some potential DIY removal methods include:
- Installing bird netting to block access to nesting sites
- Using motion-activated sprinklers to startle and disperse pigeons
- Setting up an ultrasonic pigeon repeller
When To Call the Professionals
The proper approach to pigeon control depends on several factors. If you’re dealing with a single bird, you might be able to usher it out of your home. However, this comes with the risk of contact with the illnesses pigeons can carry, such as histoplasmosis or salmonella. The location of the pigeons and their nest can also complicate the process. For instance, attic infestations are notoriously difficult to manage, but with the expertise of a Burns Pest Elimination technician, you can securely and quickly remove them.
If pigeons have become a persistent problem on your property, it’s time to reach out to the experts before the infestation spreads. At Burns Pest Elimination, we offer a comprehensive approach to humane pigeon control in Las Vegas, helping you keep your property free from pigeons and a host of other pests, from subterranean termites to treetop beehive removal.
Residential and commercial pigeon control can be tricky, but you don’t have to wing it when you have 40 years of pest control expertise at your side. Request your quote to see how Burns Pest Elimination can help you protect your home today.
