Pigeons

What happens if we feed the pigeons?

Many people feed pigeons.  The number of pigeons attracted to an area depends on the food available.  If pigeons are being fed, more pigeons will be attracted to that area.  All pigeons require nesting and roosting sites (e.g. balconies, window ledges and roof areas of surrounding buildings) as well as reliable food sources.  It is vital that food sources for pigeons are kept to a minimum.  There have been a number of cases where people have been prosecuted for causing a health risk by repeatedly feeding pigeons.

Are pigeons a health hazard?

Pigeons are regarded as unacceptable, especially in large numbers.  They have the potential to transmit disease causing organisms.

Problems may arise when pigeons roost on buildings as they foul from ledges and other nesting or roosting areas.  Their droppings cause an unsightly mess and may also cause ‘slip’ hazards on walkways and pavements.

A build up of pigeon droppings may provide a food source for a range of Fly species, particularly in pigeon lofts.  Their parasites - Fleas and Mites can cause nuisance to humans.

Pigeons can also cause a noise nuisance to people living and working in the area.

How can they be controlled?

If pigeons begin to roost on part of your property a number of remedial measures can be taken:

• Attempts can be made to ‘scare’ the pigeons away (e.g. fixing a piece of string with silver foil attached or a plastic carrier bag to the area).

• You can remove any food sources available to them.

• There are many products available to professional pest controllers that prevent pigeons from landing on areas such as ledges, roofs and balconies.  It is best to seek expert advice on these products.

If you are a Council housing tenant, your Housing Officer may be able to give you advice on how to deal with this problem.

If you are a private owner/tenant, you may have to contact a private pest control company who would normally be willing to give you a quote for pigeon proofing at your property.

All pigeon proofing work should be carried out by an experienced professional.

Please contact us if you require any assistance.

Warning:  Use biocides safely.  Always read the label and product information before use.

E-mail:

environmental.health
@thanet.gov.uk 

Tel: 01843 577580

Fax: 01843 290906