Pigeon pest control in London

Feral pigeons in a business can potentially be dangerous to human health and the environment. Like we mentioned earlier, pigeon droppings can contain harmful bacteria and fungi that can cause respiratory illnesses and other health problems when inhaled or ingested. These droppings can accumulate in large amounts in areas where pigeons roost or nest and can create a slip-and-fall hazard for employees and customers.

In addition to health risks, feral pigeons can also cause damage to buildings, vehicles, and other property. They may nest or roost in areas such as roofs, ledges, and balconies, and their droppings can corrode building materials and damage electrical equipment. Pigeons may also carry mites, ticks, and other pests that can infest a business and cause further problems.

To mitigate the potential risks associated with feral pigeons in a business, it’s important to take proactive measures to deter them. This may include blocking off potential roosting and nesting sites, using bird netting or spikes, and keeping the area clean and free of food sources that may attract pigeons. It’s also important to follow appropriate cleaning and disinfection procedures when dealing with pigeon droppings to minimize the risk of exposure to harmful pathogens.

Breathing in the dust of pigeon fouling can potentially be harmful to human health. Pigeon droppings can contain harmful bacteria and fungi that can cause respiratory illnesses such as Histoplasmosis, Cryptococcosis, and Psittacosis when inhaled. When dried, the droppings can become powdery and easily airborne, increasing the risk of inhalation.

Inhaling the dust from pigeon droppings can irritate the respiratory tract, leading to symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. In some cases, it can lead to more severe respiratory infections and long-term lung damage. This is especially true for people with weakened immune systems, such as the elderly, young children, and those with preexisting respiratory conditions.

To minimize the risk of exposure to harmful pathogens from pigeon droppings, it’s important to avoid disturbing dried droppings and to use appropriate protective equipment such as gloves, masks, and goggles when handling or cleaning contaminated areas. It’s also recommended to wet down the droppings with a disinfectant solution before cleaning to reduce the amount of dust and to follow appropriate cleaning and disposal procedures to prevent the spread of harmful pathogens.

Feral pigeons in London can breed very quickly, with the potential to produce multiple clutches of eggs each year under optimal conditions. Pigeons typically breed throughout the year, but their breeding activity tends to peak during the spring and summer months when the weather is warmer and food is more plentiful.

Female pigeons can begin laying eggs as early as six months of age and can lay up to 10-12 eggs per year. The eggs hatch after about 17-19 days, and the young pigeons, or squabs, fledge after around 30-35 days. After fledging, the young pigeons are able to start breeding themselves within a few months, contributing to the rapid growth of feral pigeon populations.

In areas where there is an abundance of food and shelter, feral pigeon populations can quickly get out of control, leading to concerns about health risks, property damage, and other issues. It’s important to take proactive measures to manage feral pigeon populations, such as limiting their access to food and nesting sites and using humane methods of population control if necessary.

Pigeons can be attracted to your business for a number of reasons, including the availability of food, water, and shelter. Pigeons are opportunistic feeders and will scavenge for food wherever they can find it. This means that if your business produces or stores food, or if there are nearby food sources such as restaurants or food markets, pigeons may be attracted to the area.

In addition to food, pigeons also require access to water for drinking and bathing. If your business has standing water, such as in gutters, plant pots, or bird baths, pigeons may be drawn to the area. Similarly, if there are leaks or other sources of moisture in your building, this may provide a water source for pigeons.

Pigeons also require shelter for roosting and nesting. They prefer elevated areas such as roofs, ledges, and balconies, and may be attracted to your business if there are suitable roosting sites available. If your building has openings or gaps that provide access to these areas, pigeons may take advantage of them.

To minimize the attraction of pigeons to your business, it’s important to eliminate or reduce their access to food, water, and shelter. This may include keeping food storage areas clean and secure, repairing leaks and other sources of moisture, and blocking off potential roosting sites. Additionally, removing or limiting access to standing water sources and implementing humane bird deterrents may also help to discourage pigeons from congregating in the area.

No, it is illegal to use poison to control pigeons in London. Poisoning pigeons can be harmful not only to the birds but also to other wildlife and pets that may consume the poisoned pigeons or the bait itself. Additionally, the use of poison to control pigeons can be ineffective, as other pigeons may simply replace those that have been killed.

Instead of using poison, it’s recommended to use humane methods of pigeon control. This may include using bird spikes or netting to prevent pigeons from roosting and nesting in or around your business, implementing sound deterrents or visual repellents, and limiting access to food and water sources. Trapping and relocating pigeons may also be an option, but this should be done in accordance with local regulations and with the help of a professional pest control service.

It’s important to note that in the UK, pigeons are considered a protected species under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. As such, it is illegal to kill or harm pigeons without a specific license or exemption. If you are experiencing problems with pigeons around your business, it’s recommended to consult with a professional pest control service that can provide safe and effective solutions that are in compliance with local regulations.