Pigeon

Pigeons in Eastern Tennessee

Found throughout the United States, the feral pigeon is a year-round pest and adapts well to man-made environments. Feral pigeons are often the most troublesome bird pest for homeowners in urban areas, as well as in small rural communities. The abundance of shelter provided by the design of many homes and buildings assures that pigeons have ample places to roost, loaf, and nest. Pigeons deface homes and structures and more seriously, are known carriers of diseases such as cryptococcosis, toxoplasmosis, salmonella, food poisoning, and more.

Pigeon Habitat

In the wild, pigeons often live on or near large, rocky cliffs. In cities and towns, pigeons are dependent on humans to provide them with food, roosting, and nesting sites. These birds nest on window ledges, roofs, in air conditioning units, traffic lights, commercial signs, and under bridges. Although they prefer grain and seed, pigeons consume garbage, insects, bread, and other handouts from people. Wherever they nest, food and water are often in plentiful supply, but when it isn’t, the birds seek resources from nearby rural or undeveloped areas that are generally within the flight range. Pigeons can breed year-round, and peak mating seasons are spring and fall.

Pigeon Behaviors, Threats or Dangers

The serious and constant public health problems feral pigeons create are unmatched by any other bird species. Pigeons are known to carry or transmit several diseases and their droppings and feathers can contaminate food destined for human consumption. Their droppings deface and accelerate deterioration of homes and buildings and also contaminate areas where people walk or work. Pigeon droppings and nests clog gutter downspouts and air intakes, mar window sills, and render fireplaces and fire escapes hazardous. Pigeon ectoparasites include chewing lice, ticks and mites, some of which bite people, which is why control of this common urban pest should always be a priority.

Pigeon Prevention

To deter pigeons from roosting on your property, it is important to make roosting and nesting areas inhospitable. Fill in access to voids, slope resting areas, and prevent landing by using devices. Do not feed pigeons and if you have bird feeders, make sure that pigeons cannot access them. Keep tight-fitting lids on trash bins and seal entry points to attics and chimneys to deter pigeons from entry. If you discover pigeons roosting on your property, contact a professional immediately to discuss a proper course of pigeon control.