If you're seeing more pigeons in your garden, it's likely because they're drawn into the space for easier access to food and water or just a space that feels safe to rest. Living with pigeons can prove to be irritating as they refuse to go away, continue to return to the same nesting spots they're comfortable with and are often in groups.
Simple and safe deterrents
While spooks, wire, gel and trapping are some common methods used to bid pigeons farewell thanks to strict animal welfare restrictions in place to protect them, these methods can only be carried out by a pest control specialist.
In the meantime, Pest Solutions have advised on some simple methods you can try at home to prevent pigeons from landing in your garden in the first place – and they're completely safe.
Reflective objects and other tricks
One thing to note is that while some birds, such as magpies, are drawn to shiny things, most birds will run far away from them, pigeons included. Reflective objects will do the trick, and hanging old CDs on a string is the perfect way to do this, as the way they move in the wind can be "surprisingly effective at scaring off pigeons", the organisation suggests.
Another thing you can plant in your garden in an attempt to scare off pigeons is models of owls or other birds of prey. Especially if you can get your hands on a model that is able to make realistic sounds, which will do an even better job at keeping pigeons at bay.
Scents and netting
When it comes to their other sense, the birds are put off by strong scents, and putting certain strong-scented items out in your garden or around your balcony could be an effective way to ward them off. Pest Solutions suggest the likes of cinnamon and hot black pepper sprays should do the trick.
They are also thought to have a strong disliking for high-pitched tones, making ultrasound deterrents a solid option for keeping pigeons out of your way at home.
If it's your plants and flowers that you're most worried about, then the pigeons' presence alone, you can protect them using a form of lightweight netting that carefully sits on top of your plants without damaging them. This should work to stop pigeons from landing on or pecking away at them.
Expert advice and reassurance
Pest Solutions advises: "Bird scarers, ultrasound speakers, scarecrows, CDs and other DIY bird control methods only go so far. At the end of the day, the only guaranteed way to keep pest birds away from your property is to call in the pros and arrange a specialised pigeon control service."
Meanwhile, the RSPCA warns people not to worry about the presence of pigeons. Their website claims: "Pigeons are not pests but an important part of the ecosystem. They clean up scraps and waste (often left by humans), eat insects, aid pollination by transferring pollen on their feathers and beaks (called ornithophily, pollination by birds) and spread seeds as natural foragers. They're friendly, clean and intelligent creatures who are happy to live with humanity. So, where possible, we should welcome them into the wild spaces we care for, too."
