Unbearable conditions for pigeons
How to get rid of pigeons on the balcony - take drastic and timely measures.
Get rid of the habit of constantly leaving food on the balcony. Any small crumbs from cookies or bread will attract pigeons. As mentioned earlier, it is very important to find out where birds like to settle. Then take small boards from damaged furniture and hammer a row of nails into them
Place the resulting repeller in their favorite place. Soon there will be no trace of pigeons in that place.
However, you shouldn’t rejoice too early, if there are other places to live on your balcony, the pigeons will notice this and will soon settle in them. It is good when the balcony is glazed and birds do not have access inside. Otherwise, this problem can be easily solved. You can install a regular mosquito net. In this case, ropes are also suitable. They will not scare away pigeons; they will make it difficult for them to fly onto the balcony.
Feathered guests do not like slippery surfaces. Therefore, Vaseline will come in handy in this case. Lubricate all surfaces on the balcony where birds like to sit. Because of the Vaseline, they will not be able to land successfully and will soon look for another place.
Various adhesive chemicals can be used for this purpose. Birds will not like the treated surface. They can be purchased at any hardware store that sells pest control products. Everything is written in detail in the instructions.
Tie the ribbon a few cm higher from your favorite place. Birds will not be able to maintain balance, therefore, they will not be able to sit.
Hot spices are considered a good repeller. Place mustard or hot pepper on the balcony. The result will be much more effective when it rains outside.
You can get rid of pigeons using ordinary water. To do this, take a garden hose and as soon as the birds have taken their place, unscrew the water tap. The birds will not be happy with such a reception. To scare them away from the balcony forever, the procedure will have to be repeated every time they appear. Sooner or later, they will leave their homes.
The most reliable method
If the above methods do not help, try another one. As soon as the birds fly to your balcony and make a nest, immediately destroy it. Keep doing this until they give up and leave your balcony forever. After that, remove everything unnecessary. Nothing should remind you of the presence of birds on the balcony.
There are a huge number of methods that help you get rid of pigeons on your balcony or loggia forever. This can be any available remedy or a special repeller. In such a matter, the main thing is not to overdo it and remember that these are birds of the world, and we must take care of them.
Pigeons are not just birds that may periodically surround you. They can lead to a number of unpleasant problems, ranging from dirt on the balcony to serious damage. Pigeons can cause fungal and other serious diseases. In addition, the unpresentable view and noise from birds interfere with a relaxing holiday.
There are several options to protect your balcony from pigeons. Choose those that suit your case and layout.
To prevent birds from landing on your balcony, there are special spikes that prevent them from landing. They look like regular tape that sticks to horizontal surfaces with frequent extensions made of soft or hard plastic. The length of each such tape is 25 centimeters, so count how many you need. If you have an unnecessary spring toy, you can attach it with tape around the perimeter of the balcony. The main thing is that it is uncomfortable for pigeons to sit on such a surface. The pigeons will not be able to perch, which means they will choose another balcony.
This decor looks quite interesting and does not interfere. Be careful with the spring - small children can reach for them and accidentally fall.
The surface treated with special substances becomes very slippery and uncomfortable, and it may also contain a bird repellent. Be sure to follow the instructions, which indicate the proportions and duration of action.
Still, be careful with chemistry; it should not harm a person and at the same time not poison, but only scare away. You can sprinkle something sharp on the surface, this will greatly repel any unwanted birds.
Pepper, mustard, spices with a bright smell. But after the rain the composition will have to be updated. The downside of this method is dirty stains from spices, but pigeons can cause more discomfort.
How to get rid of pigeons on the balcony, eaves and in the garden
It is not so difficult to prevent pigeons from nesting, although they are capable of taking a liking to any recess or cavity. Try to make all such parts of the building - attic windows, ventilation hatches, cornices, window sills - inconvenient for birds to land on.
A mesh with ¼-inch holes made of stainless wire, plastic or nylon is suitable for this UV-resistant polypropylene mesh with one-inch holes will help protect architectural elements. It is best to buy mesh in a universal black color or paint it to match the color of the building. The method is not only effective, but also durable: such a barrier will last about 10 years.
In outbuildings, netting is attached to the bottom of the rafters to prevent birds from establishing themselves inside. If necessary, “doors” are made in the material - slots with Velcro. It's also a good idea to hang a curtain made of plastic tape at the entrance.
You can permanently get rid of pigeons looking into windows by changing the angle of the cornice by 45 degrees or more. Now on sale there are special polycarbonate plates that are suitable for any “L”-shaped protrusions. The plates can be glued or screwed to any surface. Such an engineering design simply will not allow birds to land on the building.
Another option is to buy special spikes made of plastic or stainless steel. Their sharp teeth are an insurmountable barrier for almost all types of birds. The spikes are as universal as the nets, because they are attached to any surface (due to their own design or glue). To prevent the spikes from losing their properties, they need to be cleaned from time to time.
If you think that meshes and spikes do not look aesthetically pleasing, use stainless wire . The wire is stretched between metal posts, which are sold in the same set with the coil, and is slightly springy. The minimalism of the design makes it appropriate even on railings and facades of ancient buildings.
Among the physical barriers, experts also mention electrical bird control systems . The device is an electrical cable with a control unit.
When pigeons come into contact with conductors and cables, they receive an electric shock that repels but does not kill them. The cable can be installed in the same place where bird spikes, steel wire or fishing line are installed. Although electrical devices and their installation are typically labor-intensive and/or costly, their efficiency in some cases is worth the investment, say David E. Williams and Robert M. Corrigan.
The service life of such a device is about 8 years. Despite the guarantee of safety, the device is more suitable for uninhabited places, such as rooftops or industrial sites.
To summarize, physical barriers are the most effective method for eliminating pigeons.
Visual and audio aids
Pigeons are by no means forest birds, so they cannot be frightened by either loud noise or reflectors. It would be tempting to use ultrasonic devices, but they do not inspire confidence among scientists. In the case of pigeons, you shouldn’t spend money on predator figurines or speaker systems, experts say.
Chemical repellents
Pigeon repellents are attractive due to their low price (some products cost ~$8) and ease of use: you just need to squeeze a tube onto the eaves. Many users actually got rid of pests this way, but there are also those who were dissatisfied. This is because chemicals are not without their drawbacks.
The main one is the potential threat to animals, even if the product is not toxic. Most common sticky repellents can gum up a bird's plumage and prevent it from flying. This is especially dangerous for small species, which sometimes accidentally fall into a “sticky trap” prepared for pigeons.
In addition, over time, debris sticks to the treated surface, so the birds no longer experience discomfort from contact with the sticky environment. However, some manufacturers have taken this nuance into account: when exposed to air, the gel becomes covered with a protective crust, which prolongs its effect. One application is enough for a whole year.
Dried repellent does not clean well and leaves stains, and it must be applied thickly: the distance between strips should not exceed 3-4 inches. Before using the product, it is recommended to protect the surface with waterproof tape or plastic.
In non-residential premises, it is permissible to use naphthalene (not to be confused with paradichlorobenzene) to repel pigeons. A strong chemical smell will force the flock to leave the area. For every 2,000 cubic feet of area, 5 pounds of chemical is required. After the birds have flown away, you need to close all existing holes so that the pigeons do not return. Remember that mothballs are hazardous to health, especially when it comes to allergy sufferers.
Alternative ways to scare away pigeons
1. It is enough to take a “cold shower” a couple of times. Some water the birds with a hose, others use a garden sprayer - in any case, the birds will not dare to return to uncomfortable conditions.
2. Sprinkle a thin layer of sharp-smelling spices on the balcony, windowsill or attic: black or cayenne pepper, ground ginger or cinnamon, dry mustard. Don't forget to update the repeller regularly.
3. A figurine or stuffed animal of a predator (owl, eagle owl, crow) is not found in every home, but it can scare persistent birds.
4. If you find an empty (!) nest, place “dummies” of pigeon eggs in it. For birds this will be a signal: “the place is occupied!”
5. The most “advanced” device is considered to be an ultrasonic repeller. Producing ultrasound that is imperceptible to people and pets, but unpleasant to birds, the device operates as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Ways to deal with pigeons on the balcony
If birds periodically fly onto the balcony, it is enough to simply scare them away. Pigeons are afraid of sharp sounds, moving objects, and sunlight. Get a pet (cat, dog): birds are unlikely to like such a roommate.
How to evict birds from the balcony:
- The simplest remedy is to install a mosquito net and do not open windows without it. The catcher will protect against insects and birds. Unfortunately, a mesh will not save you from an iron window sill.
- Foil. Buy it at the store and cut it into strips. Hang them around the entire perimeter of the balcony or window sill. The foil will rustle and give off glare, this will help repel pigeons.
- Old CDs. Look in your pantry for old CDs and DVDs or buy new ones, they are inexpensive. Place on the outside and inside of the balcony. You can build something similar to a New Year's garland; there are master classes on the Internet that will help you assemble beautiful decorations from flexible disks. The glare will scare the birds and decorate the balcony.
- The sound will drive away the birds. If the birds have settled on the balcony, bring the radio to it and turn it on at full power. The pigeons will immediately fly away. Heavy music also acts as a repellent. But be prepared for complaints from neighbors.
- Let the cat out onto the balcony. If the animal is active enough, it will let the pigeons know who is boss. But even without an attempt on life, the birds will sense a potential predator and leave the balcony. An important point: if the apartment is located high, there is a risk that the animal will play and accidentally fall out of the window. Install a mesh that cannot be knocked out from the inside; when purchasing, check that the fibers are strong and resistant to claws.
- Give your winged parasites some water treatments: a couple of powerful jets from a hose will forever discourage them from settling on the balcony.
- Deceive the birds by scattering millet with cayenne (hot) pepper or dry mustard on the windowsill. The pigeons will be greatly disappointed and will no longer grace your balcony with their presence.
- Which is logical, if you don’t want to see birds near the horse, do not place or remove feeders and water containers. Let the birds know that this is not a canteen.
- Spices can be sprinkled on the places where pigeons land.
- Remove furniture and other objects so as not to provoke birds to build nests on the balcony.
- Collect several tin cans and hang them along the balcony. The wind will cause the containers to hit each other and make unpleasant sounds. It is clear that such noise will not please the ears of homeowners and their neighbors.
- A scarecrow is a good old way to drive away birds not only from the balcony, but also from the fields where crops grow. Make your own scarecrow. Take a soft toy with glass eyes and place it on the balcony. The eyes will sparkle, imitating the gaze of a predator. As an alternative, buy an artificial stuffed crow. Pigeons are not friends with these birds and will not settle nearby. A stuffed bird of prey (hawk, owl) would also work. One condition: the scarecrow must be more than 0.5 m in height, otherwise the pigeons will not perceive it as a threat.
- Install an automatic air freshener with a strong scent, such as citrus. Birds will forget the way to such a place.
- To prevent birds from settling on roofs or entering the attic, install a weather vane that will make noise and shine, thereby frightening them.
TOP 8 pigeon repellers
Based on the opinions of experts, we have selected the most diverse means so that you can choose the most suitable one for your situation: mesh, spikes, electric fence, water repeller with a motion sensor and chemical repellent gels.
Bird repellent gel
If you don’t want to spoil the view from your window with a metal picket fence on the eaves, try “liquid spikes.” Theoretically, this gel can be used anywhere, but you should not apply it to the railings or sides of the pool - the surface will become very sticky. In addition, the transparent repellent darkens from dirt and dust, so it cannot be called invisible. However, the gel is non-toxic and is relatively easy to wash off. One tube will last for a long time. Judging by the description, it is enough to use the product once every six months - provided that you live in a temperate climate.
Price: 2200 rub.
Bird net
Sometimes simple but time-tested devices are more powerful than new ones.
A number of users note that they got rid of pigeons on the balcony thanks to a regular mesh, which was secured to metal brackets. The polypropylene mesh is UV resistant and will last for many years. It can also be used to cover ridges and fruit trees (just be sure to secure the edges, otherwise the birds may get confused). The mesh is sold in rolls - the larger the size, the higher the price. Price: 220 rub.
Spikes
The best protection against pigeons in the city is physical barriers. Moreover, some structures can be installed even by a child. For example, plastic spikes can simply be glued to the cornice. Popular spikes are made of polycarbonate and stainless steel. The price depends on the material and length of the product. Plastic spikes create a more frequent fence, but they are also more fragile, so it is better to use metal ones against arrogant pests. Metal spikes are attached even to uneven surfaces due to the flexible base. To protect fences and gates, you can buy a set of propylene studded strips 10 x 48.8 cm.
Price: 170 rub.
Fi-Shock EAC10A-FS Super 525 Energizer, 10-Acre
Above, we mentioned electrical control systems as the means recommended by scientists. You can find an electric fence from Fi-Shock. This device creates an electric fence for small pets like rabbits and chickens. However, judging by the reviews, it can also be adapted to protect the territory from pigeons. “I have two of these devices. In the countryside I use one fence to keep animals away from the wood decking and railings. In the city, another helps keep pigeons from encroaching on the railings,” writes user Lux Occultus. True, the manufacturer itself does not indicate that the device is effective against pigeons. In addition, the wire will have to be purchased separately.
Price: ~$29.99.
Orbit 62100 Yard Enforcer Motion Activated Sprinkler with Day and Night Detection Modes
A water repeller with a motion sensor is ideal for protecting your lawn or outdoor pool. The sprinkler has a 120-degree motion sensor, which works even in the dark and repels not only birds, but also small animals. If an intruder gets closer than 35 feet, the device releases a stream of water. It can also be set to water for 30 minutes. The sprayer runs on 4 batteries and has almost no complaints about the quality.
Price: ~$45.30.
Bird-X Bird Stop Liquid Deterrent
The repellent is based on methyl anthranilate, a safe component that is found in small doses in essential oils and cosmetic products. Bird Stop is a concentrate of this substance and therefore has a pungent odor and unpleasant taste. In accordance with the instructions, the repellent must be diluted with water and sprayed in an open area: in the garden, on the lawn, on the roof, on the surface of the siding or near vegetable plantings. The manufacturer claims that Bird Stop repels all common bird species, including pigeons. However, there are a lot of negative reviews: users write that the spray does not work against geese, for example. And in this case, a large volume of product (1 gallon) is more a minus than a plus. However, Bird Stop can be recommended for use in rural areas where there are not as many pigeons as other pest birds. It is a humane alternative compared to toxic agents.
Price: ~$91.48.
What methods to use to scare away?
There are quite a few methods, both budget ones, quite economical for the home owner, and more expensive ones. The drug diazinon is very popular - it is an insecticide that helps not only remove birds, but also saves from ants, bedbugs, and cockroaches. But how to get rid of pigeons as quickly and efficiently as possible, and what to use to repel them? We'll talk about this in more detail later.
Ultrasonic repeller
A special pigeon repeller is an ultrasonic device that produces sounds inaudible to the human ear, unpleasant for birds and frightening them. Such ultrasonic devices are used everywhere not only in Russia, but also abroad. The most advanced ultrasonic devices are equipped with an infrared sensor that detects the approach of birds. The average impact area can be 4 km.
Bioacoustic apparatus
Bioacoustic devices are similar to ultrasound devices. The main method of scaring it is not only an ultrasonic signal, but also the sounds of hunting of avian predators - hawks, eagles, falcons. All parameters are adjustable, have automatic and manual settings. The most expensive devices are also equipped with a solar panel and are capable of protecting an area of more than ten hectares! They can operate in different modes and are often used in ports and private berths.
Diazinon
Diazinon is an intestinal insecticide. Sold as a liquid in special plastic bottles. The method of removing pigeons in this case is the most radical. Treated grain or other food is fed to the birds. Displaying toxic properties, diazinon destroys birds and their surviving relatives understand that flying to this feeding site is dangerous.
Spices
Various spices are unpleasant to the sensitive sense of smell, but safer than diazinon for birds. Cayenne pepper (one of the bitterest) helps most effectively, as well as mustard, cinnamon, and regular black allspice. These spices are not toxic like diazinon and are not harmful to other animals, such as dogs. And if there is a danger for stray animals to eat bread poisoned by the drug diazinon, then ground spices will definitely not attract them. Sprinkle cayenne pepper on your window sill, eaves, railings, or other bird landing areas and you may find that the persistent visits will stop.
Watering with a hose
A simple method that causes pigeons to clearly understand that after approaching this place, water falls on them. Systematic use in areas helps remove annoying flying guests. Garden sprayers are commonly used. A high-pressure stream effectively scares birds, but for this method to work, water systematically and diligently when they approach.
Refusal to feed birds
The best and most proven method. Where stray pigeons are not fed, they do not live and do not breed. Often people themselves are to blame for the problem of uncontrolled reproduction of birds. Not realizing how gullible the birds are, they feed them, and then they themselves get angry at their record number. Put leftover food in the trash can, not out the window. Do not throw bread and seeds from the balcony, otherwise you will quickly attract birds to your railing.
Stuffed bird of prey
It is advisable to place it on the balcony or terrace. It should be natural in size and very believable. Usually they put up a stuffed hawk or falcon; pigeons are most afraid of them. However, the effect of this method is temporary, because the stuffed animal is motionless. As the birds get used to it, they will have to look for something else.
Anti-landing spokes
They can be attached to any surface because they have an adhesive backing. They look like metal needles sticking out in different directions with a moderately sharp surface. Knitting needles can be bought at large hardware stores; they can be attached anywhere – even on the roof of a house.
Noisy and reflective objects
Mirrors, rattles, rattling or ringing hanging objects such as wind chimes or Mexican souvenirs are very effective deterrents. Reflective elements are an additional element of bioacoustic devices. A rectangular oblong mirror hung on a balcony with its reflective surface facing outwards is an excellent method of protection against unwanted birds. Ringing and cracking objects are also good for these purposes. True, city pigeons cannot be frightened by noise, so noise repellent methods are more likely to be good for suburban areas.
Comparison table of methods and repellers
Method/product | How, when and where to use it best | Benefits of exposure | Minuses |
Grids | For the protection of attic windows, ventilation hatches, cornices, window sills, flower beds and beds | Affordable, durable, versatile | Not very aesthetically pleasing |
Spikes | On the eaves of houses and city fences | Prevents pests from landing on surfaces | Not very aesthetically pleasing. Needs to be cleaned periodically. |
Wire | On the eaves of houses, railings, fences, roofs, facades | Effectively repels birds. More appropriate and aesthetically pleasing than spikes | Periodically you need to check the integrity of the tension wire |
Electrical Bird Control Systems | To protect any areas and surfaces attacked by pigeons | Durable: service life -8 years. Does not kill, but only scares away birds | Expensive. More suitable for deserted places: roofs, industrial sites. |
Chemical repellents: gels, sprays, naphthalene | Various surfaces are processed: cornices, roofs, railings, lawns, monuments, etc. | Causes a persistent reflex that forces you to avoid treated areas in the future | Some compounds are toxic and require proper use according to instructions. |
Get a cat in the house
If the previous methods help you only for a short time and the birds get used to noise and other effects, try getting a cat at home
. Her natural instinct as a hunter will not allow her to leave the birds outside the window unattended. There is no need to open the windows at all. The cat will stand on its hind legs, walk along the window glass from the side of the room - and this alone is enough for the birds to forget the way to you.
Some bird experts claim that a stuffed crow will reliably repel pigeons.
. The method is not simple, but maybe it will suit you. In nature, crows are natural enemies of smaller urban birds. Be sure that the pigeons will perceive this stuffed animal as an enemy.
Preventive measures
If pigeons have chosen your home, it means that they found it attractive in order to build a nest or even settle down. To prevent the appearance of arrogant birds, follow these rules:
- Keep balconies, loggias and attics clean. Birds love to make their homes in cluttered, dusty corners.
- Do not feed birds on your territory. It is better to equip a feeder in the nearest square or park.
- Do not leave food and water in the open.
- If you live in a private sector, regularly get rid of pests that attract pigeons. Cover berry or vegetable plantings with a protective net.
- If possible, have a cat in your local area. Pigeons prefer not to go where a dangerous animal lives.
Before taking any action, check your local environmental laws to see what practices are allowed in your area!
There are quite a few methods, both budget ones, quite economical for the home owner, and more expensive ones.
But how to get rid of pigeons as quickly and efficiently as possible, and what to use to repel them? We'll talk about this in more detail later.
Spices
Various spices are unpleasant to the sensitive sense of smell of birds. The most effective scent deterrents are cayenne pepper (one of the bitterest), as well as mustard, cinnamon, and regular black allspice. Sprinkle cayenne pepper on your window sill, eaves, railings, or other bird landing areas and you may find that the persistent visits will stop.
Refusal to feed birds
The best and most proven method. Where stray pigeons are not fed, they do not live and do not breed. Often people themselves are to blame for the problem of uncontrolled reproduction of birds. Not realizing how gullible the birds are, they feed them, and then they themselves get angry at their record number. Put leftover food in the trash can, not out the window. Do not throw bread and seeds from the balcony, otherwise you will quickly attract birds to your railing.
Isolation of possible nesting sites
To do this you need:
- close the attics;
- seal holes between roof tiles and in the walls of the house;
- Use wire or plastic mesh to block access to any areas where birds might nest (for example, around outdoor air conditioner units).
Discouraging images
Figures or kites in the shape of a hawk or falcon are suitable; pigeons are most afraid of them. However, the effect of this method is temporary, since the pigeons will quickly get used to the image of a stationary predator. As the birds get used to it, they will have to look for something else.
Anti-landing device
Suitable for this:
- Spring toy.
- Sheathing made of metal, plywood or polyvinyl chloride, that is, a slippery surface that birds cannot land on.
- A strong rope that needs to be installed so that it is at a level of 2-3 cm at the landing site. It will become much more difficult for birds to maintain balance and they will avoid such objects.
The toy needs:
- Stretch along the balcony railing so that the distance between adjacent rings does not exceed 4 centimeters.
- Secure the spring with tape every 20-30 cm.
As a result, pigeons will not be able to land on the surface covered with rings.
Noisy and reflective objects
Mirrors, rattles, rattling or ringing hanging objects such as wind chimes or Mexican souvenirs are very effective deterrents.
Reflective elements are an additional element of bioacoustic devices. A rectangular oblong mirror hung on a balcony with its reflective surface facing outwards is an excellent method of protection against unwanted birds. Ringing and cracking objects are also good for these purposes. True, city pigeons cannot be frightened by noise, so noise repellent methods are more likely to be good for suburban areas.
Industrial repellers
If you have tried all the homemade devices, but have not achieved results, we will tell you how to get rid of pigeons using industrial repellers. There are several types of such devices sold in stores.
Ultrasonic. The device generates an ultrasonic signal that is heard only by birds and small rodents, and its intensity forces birds to keep their distance from the source. Modern devices are equipped with a motion sensor, so they turn on only when uninvited guests appear. Bioacoustic. The principle of its operation is similar to the previous one, only, in addition to the ultrasonic signal, the bioacoustic repeller imitates the screams of predators
Such devices are installed in port areas, since it is extremely important to combat pigeons, seagulls and sparrows in fish unloading areas. They are also purchased by enterprises concerned about the health of their employees, since pigeon feces can make them sick. Laser
The disadvantage of previous devices is the ability of some birds to adapt to their signals. Therefore, recently they began to use a sliding laser beam in the green range, which, when it hits the retina of a bird’s eye, temporarily disorients it and causes a feeling of fear. The laser pigeon repeller is safe for animals and humans, so its simplest modifications are quite suitable for protecting a balcony or attic.
Yes, poison is used to get rid of birds, but the editors of our portal are against such an inhumane act.
If none of the above methods help, the last resort remains - poison. Of course, this is not humane; moreover, poison used without observing safety precautions can harm other birds or pets. Therefore, it is necessary to get rid of pigeons in this way only in special cases.
The insecticide "Diazinon" was originally intended to kill parasitic insects on the skin of cattle. But over time it was discovered that pigeons could also be poisoned with this poison. Although this product is safe for people, it can harm other birds and pets. Therefore, dead birds must be burned.
"Diazinon" is used as follows. Take two containers: one for grain, the other for preparing a solution of the drug. Afterwards, their contents are mixed, infused for 2 - 3 hours and filtered. The ingredients must be mixed in the proportion of 3 ml of poison per 1 kg of grain
Then the resulting poison, taking precautions (that is, out of the reach of other birds), is poured into places where pigeons gather
When working with poisons, you should not neglect protective equipment for the skin and respiratory tract, even if the instructions for the drug indicate that it is safe for humans. While preparing the solution, do not eat, drink or smoke. Also, do not exceed the recommended dose.
You can poison pigeons without using poison by adding dry sawdust to their grain, which often gets stuck in the crop, swells with moisture and completely covers it. Along with the sawdust, food particles will remain there, which will eventually begin to rot, and the bird will die. But even if there is no grain in the crop, the pigeon will not be able to eat and will die of hunger.
As you know, lead is a strong poison, and it is not difficult to find (for example, extracted from a car battery). A piece of this metal is infused in water with grain, after which food is given to the pigeons. When the level of the substance in the bird’s body reaches a lethal dose, it will die.
Since lead is dangerous not only for birds, but can also harm animals and people, it is recommended to resort to this method only as a last resort. You must first make sure that the poisonous metal will not become food for other living creatures.
Potassium permangantsovka
A concentrated solution of potassium permanganate is lethal to pigeons, and it is safe for humans. To cause poisoning in a bird, 2 g of this substance is enough. By the way, it is not necessary to buy poisons or special drugs. Some people add large doses of unused medications with a suitable expiration date to their food or water. Antibacterial agents are the most effective.
Salt in large quantities is a strong poison for pigeons. If it is regularly added to grain and water, the bird's body will accumulate this substance until its level reaches a fatal level. Of course, killing any living creature in this way is not humane, since the birds will not die immediately.
Sometimes people are ready to go to extreme measures to protect their balcony, attic or other building from annoying birds. But on the other hand, how can you kill a pigeon just because it is looking for a safe home? Give preference to more humane methods.
Comparison table of the best pigeon repellers
Name | Type | How to use | Price |
Bird repellent gel | Chemical repellents | “Liquid nails”, leave a strip on the eaves, roof | 2200 rub. |
Net | Net | As a barrier - fix it on the balcony, cover the beds, etc. | 220 rub. |
Anti-landing spikes | Spikes | For protecting fences and gates | 170 rub. |
Fi-Shock EAC10A-FS Super 525 Energizer | Electric fence | As a barrier in areas where birds are active | ~$29.99. |
Orbit 62100 Yard Enforcer Motion Activated Sprinkler | Water repeller with motion sensor | Connect to water and install on a personal plot, positioned opposite the protected object | $45.30 |
Bird-X Liquid Deterrent | Chemical repellents | Dilute with water and spray on open areas: lawns, roofs, lawns, etc. | $91.48 |
Poison for pigeons: is it worth using?
The most radical way to combat pests is physical destruction. However, before acting, it is necessary to clarify two issues: legal and sanitary-hygienic. Although pigeons are not a protected species, check your state's laws. If there is no ban on killing pigeons, you need to decide how to do it safely.
It may be worth contacting a specialist service, as toxicants registered for pigeon control are only available to professionals. For example, the DRC-1339 tool may only be used by USDA APHIS-Wildlife Services employees or persons working under its supervision. Avitrol, one of the most effective pesticides, is also limited in use.
– In order to obtain approval for Avitrol, you must adequately describe in your application how you will protect “non-target” birds from accidental poisoning. Be prepared to scare away all such birds that come to feed, even if you scare away the pigeons along with them. Their protection is your responsibility. When using Avitrol or any similar products, special teams must be working to collect dead birds, explains William H. Kern of Florida State University.
When looking for poison for pigeons, we must not forget that domestic pets can also become innocent victims, so it is advisable to use toxicants only away from residential spaces - on economic or agricultural sites.
– The use of repellents and poisons as part of a bird control program requires great attention to detail. Follow all product instructions and don't skimp on them; doing so may be dangerous or unhelpful, warn Robert A. Pierce and Kevin McGrath of the University of Missouri.
Which poison to choose
Poison for birds can be selected either humanely or capable of causing physical suffering. Among the substances that can actually poison annoying yard inhabitants, the most popular are lead, sawdust, table salt, potassium permanganate and Diazinon. Poisonous gases, solutions, emulsions, herbicides and other means are also used.
One of the most used poisons for yard pigeons. Lead in small quantities is not capable of harming human health, but if it is tested on birds, it will accumulate in the body, becoming life-threatening. The metal can be obtained from an old battery or purchased. Next, it should be mixed with water. It will not be possible to kill birds quickly, since only a high concentration of lead in the body will be lethal for them. This method is suitable for city fountains from which pigeons drink water.
Wood sawdust
How to poison pigeons using sawdust? They are simply mixed into bird food. After entering the goiter, such a treat swells and clogs it. Once access is blocked, food does not enter the stomach. The cause of death from such poison, made for pigeons with your own hands, is the decay products of sawdust, hunger and thirst. This method, like the previous one, cannot be called humane. It is permissible to place a bait with sawdust in the yard, and even on the balcony, since the wood fragments are harmless to humans.
Salt
When wondering what is the best way to poison pigeons, people often used what was always at hand. Table salt, added in large quantities to a bird's food, can have a detrimental effect on its body. The principle of operation is simple: a malfunction occurs in the normal functioning of internal organs.
To ensure that salt crystals are better absorbed, they are moistened before use. It will not be possible to quickly poison birds using this method, but due to its accessibility and effectiveness, the method is in great demand. Symptoms of bird poisoning include loss of appetite, diarrhea, white discharge and hypertrophy of internal organs.
Potassium permangantsovka
What else can you do to poison pigeons in the yard? A good way is to use a concentrated solution of potassium permanganate. To make your own poison, you need to dilute 2 g of the product per 1 kg of weight. Certain medications are often used in high dosages. Antibiotics and vaccines in excessive quantities, instead of treatment, provoke the death of birds.
How can you be sure to kill a pigeon using a medication? Among a number of pharmaceutical products, Diazinon for pigeons is considered one of the humane ways to get rid of pests. The drug is intended to eliminate harmful insects from large animals. To make a deadly treat, add 3 cubes of the product, previously dissolved according to the instructions, to 1 kg of grain. In order for the food to become saturated with it, it is recommended to leave the processed grain for a couple of hours. Next, the accumulated liquid is removed and the birds are fed.
When working with the drug, you must wear a closed-type protective suit and high boots.
A respirator is used to protect the respiratory system. When pouring poisoned grain into the food and water of birds, you do not need to smoke, drink or eat anything yourself. Pigeons die very quickly from such a treat. In case of poisoning, a person experiences nausea and vomiting, headache and other characteristic symptoms.
Why are pigeons dangerous?
The presence of a flock produces a large amount of droppings, which is not only unsightly, but also harmful - plants die, metal rusts. At agricultural enterprises, pigeons can heavily contaminate grain. In addition, pigeons are carriers of serious diseases (ornithosis, encephalitis, salmonellosis). However, scientists from the University of Missouri consider the likelihood of human infection to be low.
However, few people know that a thick layer of pigeon droppings on the eaves is a source of fungal infection. Histoplasmosis affects a person's lungs and sometimes leads to death.
Obviously, the excessive importunity of pigeons needs to be combated. At the very least, you shouldn’t feed them on the balcony, as some city dwellers do. To avoid nesting, do not leave trash or old furniture in areas accessible to birds. Farmers need to take care to properly store grain and, if possible, make it difficult for birds to access water.