Pest Types

All information in this section of our website is taken from the Pest Fact Sheets which are published on the Harrow County Council website. We would like to thank the Harrow County Council Web Team for their kind permission allowing us to reproduce these fact sheets.

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Feral Pigeon

Feral pigeons (Columba livia var) are found in association with human habitation in all our towns and cities. They are related to the Rock Dove which is now only found in remote cliffs and are a result of interbreeding between the Rock Dove and Racing Pigeons which have gone feral. This accounts for the variety of markings commonly found on feral pigeons. They build their nests in or on buildings, particularly on ledges, under eaves and on girders under railway bridges.

Damage caused by pigeons
The mess which they make underneath their nests, from droppings, feathers, egg shells etc, is not only unsightly but dangerous. The droppings are acidic so that they not only disfigure buildings but can actually attack and damage building materials such as stone and brickwork.

Gutters and drain pipes may become blocked, leading to flooding and other associated problems. Pavements, ladders and fire escapes may be made unsafe due to the hazard of slipping on droppings.

Feral pigeons can also carry ornithosis (a mild form of psittacosis) and some have been shown to carry salmonella. This could be a potential hazard if they gain access to food premises. Properties infested with large numbers of pigeons often also become infested with beetles or bird mites. Bird mites will bite humans as well as birds.

Prevention
If occupiers of premises are bothered with pigeons in or on their buildings, it is the responsibility of the owner of the building to carry out any protective or preventative measures. However, as is usually the case, prevention is better than cure.

Preventative methods include:-

- Proofing buildings against entry. Make sure that end walls do not have any gaps larger than 20mm, and that any gaps left intentionally for ventilation, are netted.
- Protecting vulnerable areas such as exposed girders, canopies etc. with suitable netting, ensuring that it is applied properly with no gaps.
- Applying anti perching devices such as wires or spikes to vulnerable areas such as ledges, window sills and roof parapets.

Do not feed them The most important way of discouraging feral pigeons from infesting houses and gardens, public areas and streets is by not feeding them. It may be a popular pastime in Trafalgar Square or St Mark’s in Venice, but it is to be discouraged in gardens, suburban shopping streets and public areas. The feeding of pigeons has now been prohibited in Trafalgar Square. Food left on the ground for birds is often a major cause of rat infestations.

If you are unable to deal with a common pest problem satisfactorily, then contact Commercial Pest Control London. Our rates are competitive and we will get the job done fast and efficiently. For a professional service call Commercial Pest Control London today on freephone 0800 043 2056

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