General Characteristics:
- The Common Pigeon (Rock Dove) is the most serious bird pest species in North America
- Native to Europe, North Africa, and south-western Asia, they are found worldwide
- Typically pigeons have varying body colors from gray to white, tan, and/or black
- The head is usually dark with a green-purple iridescence, white rump, two black bands across secondary feathers, broad black band on tail and red feet
- Average weight of 12 ounces
Reproduction:
- Pigeons are monogamous for life
- The male will care for the female, build the nest and assist with incubation
- Eggs hatch in about 19 days
- 4-6 young are fed a regurgitated substance called pigeon milk
- The young (squabs) will leave the nest in 4-6 weeks
- Pigeons have lived for up to 15 years, however in urban areas the estimated lifespan is 3-4 years
Signs of Infestation:
- In urban areas they flock in large numbers in search of food which is found and dropped by humans
- Roosting and Nesting around buildings and other man made structures are major concerns
- Their droppings can be very aesthetically unpleasant and feces material is highly acidic and can discolour a variety of materials
- Many organisms found within the droppings can cause very serious health problems such as Encephalitis, Salmonella, Ornithosis, Toxoplasmosis along with many bacterial diseases
- Associated with many other health and respiratory aliments serious to human health
Control Techniques:
Several methods of control are available for Pigeons, but a professional inspection is highly recommended to determine the best course of action to proceed. Some control methods to consider are:
- Exclusion by tactile repellents (mechanical and chemical)
- Mechanical - ‘Nixalite’ wire-myriad spring-tempered nickel stainless steel wire lengths with sharp points extending outward at various angles. These can be attached to a solid base of window sills, ledges, eaves, rooftops or wherever birds
are a concern
- Chemical tactile repellents are widely available in forms of gels, pastes and sprays
- Live trapping is very effective for long term results
- AVITROL- Bait used for sparrow and pigeon control (Treated toxic corn diluted with regular corn chop varieties)
- Sound deterrents are not a practical long term solution because birds have adapted to urban life
- Steel wire can be suspended along ledges of structure
- Electrically charged wires are also available
- Pressure washer can be used to clean surface areas free of nesting debris
Please click here to contact a Focus Pest Control professional to inquire about further treatments for this pest species.
References:
Benett, Gary W., et.al.. Truman’s Scientific Guide to Pest Control Operations. Duluth: Advanstar Communications, 1988. Pp. 357-359.
Roof, J. 2001. "Columba livia" (On-line), Animal Diversity Web. Accessed May 15, 2009 at
http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Columba_livia.html.
Disclaimer:
The Focus Pest Control ‘Pest Library’ is an educational resource written largely to educate the general public about common pests in Ontario. The Focus ‘Pest Library’ does not include all species in Ontario, nor does it include the most recent scientific data about species we describe. Though we edit our accounts for accuracy, we cannot guarantee all information in those accounts. While Focus Pest Control staff and contributors provide references to books and websites that we believe are reputable, we cannot necessarily endorse the contents of references beyond our control.
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