Pigeons

What happens when 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 (eg 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.

PIGEOND1-300x199Are pigeons a health hazard?

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

Are they are problem?

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.

PIGEONDA-300x221A 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.

Human Disease Transmission 

Birds are associated with dissemination of the causative agents of a large number of diseases that can affect the health of humans.  There are more than 110 pathogens (8 virus, 55 fungi, 41 bacteria, 6 protozoa) reported to affect pigeons.  Scientific papers implicating wild birds in the dissemination of zoonoses are easily found.  These studies give pest controllers ample reasons for arguing that birds and their droppings can be a hazard to public health and that bird management could help in preventing the spread of disease.  However, reports of actual cases of human diseases transmitted from birds are relatively rare (though it is likely that the majority of cases go unreported).

Reasons for Control

There are a variety of reasons for managing urban bird pests.  These reasons generally involve health, safety or saving money, or a combination of these.

Control of Pigeons

Sabre has a number of methods at our disposal including netting, bird spikes, gel, electric tracks, controlled culling and trapping. We also have a team of dedicated abseilers to ensure that even the most difficult of locations can be reached

WIREDPIG-150x150Bird Fouling creates not only an eyesore on buildings, walkways and front signage of businesses, it also has potential health risk implications that few businesses can afford i.e. Salmonella, Ornithosis (Feral Pigeons) and E.Coli (Gulls). Slip hazards can also be created on walkways in and around buildings from bird fouling, and due to the acidic nature of bird fouling, the fabrication and stonework of buildings can become damaged and weakened. Sabre offers a selection of Bird Control and Clearance Methods including:

  • Universal Bird Point System – Can be installed on horizontal ledges, window ledges and other sites used by pigeons and gulls to deny them perching and roosting sites.
  • Specialised Bird Netting – Can be installed into areas where prevention of bird ingress is required. A team of specialised installation and design technicians can tailor this form of bird control to any individual situation.
  • Pigeon Clearance Works – No matter how small or large the amount of bird fouling, it creates serious health risks to humans and the correct disposal of such waste is essential. Sabre offer a professional and efficient fouling clearance and disinfection service throughout a wide spectrum of situations.
  • Electric Bird Deterrent System-  This latest generation of bird deterrent system works by sending a pulse of electricity to prevent birds from landing. Ideal for all locations as it is discreet, reliable and ideal for the changeable UK weather. It is used extensively on heritage sites and challenging building specifications.

Please call 01923 634564 for further assistance or e-mail info@sabrepestcontrol.co.uk