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How To Get Rid of Pigeons On Your Roof

flock of pigeons landing on a roof

In many ways, pigeons are fascinating. They were the first domesticated bird.
They’re navigation experts who are known to find their way home from more than a thousand miles away, even after being transported to an unknown location in complete isolation. And, their navigation skills have made them war heroes many times over. Pigeons serving during WWI saved thousands of lives, and one pigeon alone delivered a dozen essential messages for the U.S. military during the war.

On the other hand, if they’re flocking on your roof, you’re not celebrating their achievements. You have a real problem. These pesky birds make a habit of swooping in and taking over areas that aren’t theirs. While this can be very frustrating, there are ways to fight back. Instead of dealing with these unwanted tenants, learn how to get rid of pigeons on your roof, and take back control of your home.

Understanding Pigeon Behavior

Understanding pigeon habits is critical if you want to know how to keep pigeons off your roof. Pigeons have a strong homing instinct and tend to return to their roosting sites, making them persistent if not deterred. They like nesting on ledges and roofs, and may build nests year-round. Recognizing their attraction to food sources, roosting preferences and nesting behaviors is essential to keep pigeons at bay.

Pigeons choose roofs for nesting due to several factors. They offer flat, elevated surfaces that closely resemble the natural cliffs and ledges pigeons would typically inhabit in the wild. This elevated position provides a strategic advantage, protecting their nests and young from ground-level predators like rodents and cats. Roofs also tend to be dry and sheltered, shielding the nests from the elements.

pigeons standing on the ground

Scare Tactics To Deter Pigeons

Scare tactics for pigeons are strategies designed to discourage these birds from roosting or nesting in unwanted areas like your roof. Visual and auditory deterrents play a crucial role. While scare tactics can be effective in the short term, pigeons may eventually become used to them, so it’s important to combine these methods with other long-term solutions for effective pigeon control.

Visual Deterrents

Visual deterrents are effective tools used to discourage pigeons from roosting or nesting. They typically include reflective materials or objects that create an environment perceived as unsafe. You can use reflective tape, shiny balloons and even wind chimes. The reflective surfaces disorient pigeons, making them uncomfortable and deterring them from landing. Visual deterrents can be especially useful when combined with other bird control methods.

Auditory Deterrents

Audio deterrents for pigeons utilize sounds to discourage them from roosting or nesting. These devices emit sounds that mimic distress calls of pigeons or predatory bird calls, signaling danger to the pigeons. This disrupts their sense of safety and makes them less likely to stay in the vicinity. While audio deterrents can be effective in the short term, it’s important to vary the sounds periodically to prevent pigeons from becoming accustomed to them.

two pigeons standing on a roof

Ways To Keep Pigeons Off Your Roof

In addition to visual and audio deterrents, you can install physical deterrents like bird spikes or netting on potential landing and nesting areas. Regularly clean up food scraps and secure garbage to remove potential food sources. Additionally, seal any openings or gaps that pigeons could use to access your roof. Employing these strategies collectively can help ensure a pigeon-free roof.

Netting and Mesh

Using netting and mesh to deter pigeons is an effective strategy for keeping these birds away from your roof. Pigeon netting is typically made of durable materials like polyethylene and is installed over spaces where pigeons roost or nest. This creates a physical barrier that prevents pigeons from landing. Mesh can be used to close off openings and gaps where pigeons might enter. Both methods provide a long-lasting solution that not only deters pigeons, but also ensures the safety and cleanliness of the protected area.

Spikes And Slopes

Alternatives to netting, include spikes and slopes. These are effective methods to discourage pigeons from roosting and nesting on surfaces like ledges, window sills and roofs. Pigeon spikes are typically made of stainless steel or plastic, and they create an uncomfortable and uneven landing area for pigeons, making it inconvenient for them to settle. On the other hand, sloped surfaces, such as angled window sills or rooftop edges, prevent pigeons from finding a stable footing, causing them to seek more suitable perching spots elsewhere. These methods provide a long-term solution to pigeon control.

pigeon landing on a roof

Homemade Repellents

Using homemade repellents to deter pigeons from your roof can be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly approach. Common homemade solutions create an unpleasant sensory experience for pigeons, deterring them from landing and nesting on your roof. However, it’s important to note that homemade repellents may need to be reapplied regularly, especially after rain, and their effectiveness can vary.

Chili Pepper Repellent

Using chili pepper repellent for pigeons is a popular and humane method to deter these birds from landing and nesting on your roof. This homemade solution involves mixing chili pepper or hot sauce with water and spraying it on surfaces where pigeons tend to roost. The spicy substance irritates their feet and beaks, making the area uncomfortable for them.

Reflective Objects

Using reflective objects such as shiny tape, aluminum foil strips or metallic balloons can deter pigeons from roosting on your roof. The reflective surfaces disorient the birds, making them uncomfortable with the constant movement and light.

pigeons flying over tv antenna

Professional Solutions

Sometimes you may need to call in the professionals. If you’re having difficulty keeping pigeons away from your roof after trying other methods yourself, a pest expert can help in a number of ways.

Hiring A Pest Control Expert

Hiring a pest expert to address a pigeon problem on your roof can be a wise decision. Pest experts have the knowledge and experience to assess the situation accurately, determine the extent of the infestation and recommend effective solutions.

Bird Repellent

Utilizing bird repellent coatings or gels on your roof is an effective approach to keep pigeons away. These products create a sticky surface that pigeons find uncomfortable to land on, making your roof less appealing for roosting and nesting while ensuring the birds’ safety.

avian control bird product banner

Preventive Measures

Implementing preventative measures is critical to keep pigeons off your roof. Start by regularly inspecting your property for potential entry points, gaps or openings that pigeons might use. Maintain a clean environment by promptly cleaning up food scraps and securing garbage, as pigeons are attracted to food sources.. By proactively addressing these issues, you can create an unwelcoming environment for pigeons.

Regular roof maintenance is essential to keep pigeons away. Ensure there are no gaps, openings or loose roof tiles. Regularly inspect and seal any potential entry points. Additionally, clean your roof and gutters regularly to remove debris that can attract pigeons in search of food. By keeping your roof well-maintained and free from enticing features, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of pigeons roosting or nesting on your property.

Trim back trees and shrubs near the roof to eliminate perching and nesting spots. This prevents pigeons from gaining easy access. Also, ensure that any food sources, such as bird feeders or pet food, are kept well away from the roof area. Pigeons are attracted to these food sources, and by relocating them, you reduce the incentive for pigeons to congregate on your property.

Keep Pigeons Off Your Roof With Avian Enterprises

Don’t let pigeons drop by uninvited. Take back your roof with an effective, non-lethal solution that really works. Avian Control is a strong liquid bird repellent that will eradicate birds without harming them or the surrounding environment. To find out more or to try Avian Control, contact us at 888.868.1982, today.

How To Get Rid of Pigeons On Your Roof