Pigeon Control

Pigeon Control

Professional Pigeon Control with Pale Horse Pest Control

Pigeons and solar panels may seem like an unlikely combination, but in fact, these birds can cause significant damage to solar panels if left unchecked.

Bristol has a large population of feral pigeons in and around its urban centre and city suburbs. The demand for pigeon proofing is on the rise and not always for reasons that may at first seem obvious.

Pigeons are attracted to the flat, open surface of solar panels as a place to perch and nest. However, their droppings, feathers, and nesting materials can accumulate on the panels and reduce their efficiency, potentially leading to costly repairs.

Deposits of bird waste or guano can also block gutters, causing water ingress, dampness and mould.

Avian Mites - the bedbugs of the sky!

Another less well-reported consequence is the transmission of bird parasites into the fabric of the building. Bird mites, also known as avian mites, are tiny arthropods that feed on the blood of birds.

Avian mites can become a problem in the bedroom when they infest bird nests, such as those of pigeons or sparrows, that are located near or on the exterior of a home. Once the birds vacate the nest, the mites may migrate indoors in search of a new host and end up in the bedroom.

It's also important to reduce humidity levels in the bedroom and to repair any leaks or other moisture problems in the room, as mites thrive in damp environments.

The most common method of pigeon-proofing solar panels is with steel mesh that is fixed to the side of the panels with clips or adhesive. This won't stop the birds from landing on the panels, but it will prevent them from nesting or resting beneath the solar panels.

Another effective way to pigeon-proof solar panels is to install bird netting or bird spikes around the perimeter of the panels.

Bird netting is a physical barrier that prevents pigeons from accessing the panels.

Bird spikes, on the other hand, are small, pointed devices that are installed along the edge of the panel and make it difficult for pigeons to land.

Both bird netting and bird spikes are effective at keeping pigeons away from solar panels but only a well-installed net will offer an affordable way to keep your solar panels completely bird-free.

Another option is to install ultrasonic bird repellers, which emit high-frequency sounds that are designed to deter pigeons and other birds. These devices can be programmed to emit different frequencies, making them more effective at keeping pigeons away, but opinion is divided on their efficacy and if this form of stress inducement is humane.

Additionally, property owners can also take steps to eliminate food sources and nesting sites for pigeons nearby. Removing bird feeders, cleaning up spilt birdseed, and trimming trees and bushes that pigeons use for nesting can help to reduce the number of pigeons around solar panels.

Pigeon-proofing solar panels is an important step in protecting the efficiency and longevity of solar panels. By using bird netting, bird spikes, ultrasonic bird repellers, physical barriers, and reducing food sources, property owners can effectively keep pigeons away from their solar panels. While it's important to consider the cost and effectiveness of the solution, it's also important to choose a humane solution that does not harm the birds.

10 Ways to Keep Pigeons Away From Solar Panels

1. Install bird netting or bird spikes: These physical barriers can prevent pigeons from accessing the solar panels and perching on them.
2. Use ultrasonic bird repellents: These devices emit high-frequency sounds that are designed to deter pigeons and other birds.
3. Install a physical barrier: Metal sheets or wire meshes on the solar panel's surface can prevent birds from landing on the panels and creating nests.
4. Remove food sources: Removing bird feeders and cleaning up spilt birdseed can help to reduce the number of pigeons around solar panels.
5. Trim trees and bushes: Pigeons use trees and bushes for nesting, and trimming them can help to discourage them from hanging around.
6. Keep the area clean: Regularly cleaning the area around the solar panels can prevent pigeons from being attracted to the site.
7. Use visual deterrents: Visual deterrents such as shiny objects, plastic owls, or decoys can help to scare pigeons away.
8. Cover the solar panels at night: Covering the solar panels at night can prevent pigeons from perching on them and leaving droppings overnight.
9. Use bird-repellant paint and gels or avian lasers: These deter pigeons from landing or roosting on the surface.
10. Invite our experts in to help. Our pest control services can provide effective solutions for pigeon control and guano clearance.

When is The Best Time of Year to Control Pigeons?

The best time to control pigeons is during the non-breeding season, which is typically from late fall to early spring.

During this time, pigeons are less likely to be nesting and raising young, making it easier to implement control measures without causing harm to the birds or their offspring.

During the breeding season, which is typically from spring to early fall, it's illegal to remove or disturb active nests or eggs in most areas, so it's best to avoid any control measures during this time.

It's important to note that in some areas, pigeons may breed year-round, so it's always best to consult with a wildlife expert or professional pest control service to determine the best time for pigeon control in your specific location.

It's important to remember that pigeon control should always be done humanely and ethically, without causing harm to the birds.

Is it legal to control pigeons in the united kingdom?

In the United Kingdom, it is legal to control pigeons, but there are guidelines and regulations that must be followed.

The Wild Birds Protection Act of 1954 and the Wildlife and Countryside Act of 1981 protect feral pigeons (also known as rock doves), as they are considered wild birds. This means that it is illegal to intentionally kill or take wild pigeons or damage or destroy their nests or eggs.

However, it is legal to use humane methods to control pigeon populations using bird netting, bird spikes, or other physical barriers to prevent pigeons from accessing an area. Habitat modification will also discourage pigeons from nesting.

Additionally, it's important to note that it is illegal to use poisons or other inhumane methods to control pigeon populations in the UK.

What Disease Do Pigeons Carry and Spread?

Feral pigeons may carry a variety of diseases that can be transmitted to humans. Some of the most common diseases associated with pigeons include:

1. Psittacosis: Also known as parrot fever, this is a bacterial infection that can cause flu-like symptoms in humans.
2. Salmonellosis: This is a bacterial infection that can cause diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps.
3. E. coli: This is a bacterial infection that can cause diarrhea and other symptoms.
4. Cryptococcosis: This is a fungal infection that can cause lung infections and meningitis in people with weakened immune systems.
5. Histoplasmosis: This is a fungal infection that can cause lung infections, and it is usually caused by inhaling spores from bird droppings.
6. St. Louis encephalitis: This is a viral infection that can cause inflammation of the brain and can lead to severe neurological complications.

The liklihood of disease contraction increases with the amount of time and frequency a person is exposed to the pathogen (disease causing microorganism).

It is important to note that the risk of contracting these diseases from pigeons is relatively low, and can be reduced by taking proper precautions when handling pigeons or cleaning up after them.

10 Interesting Facts About Feral Pigeons

1. Feral pigeons, also known as city pigeons, are descendants of the domesticated rock pigeon, which has been kept by humans for thousands of years.
2. Pigeons have been known to live in cities for over 5,000 years, and are considered one of the oldest domesticated birds.
3. Feral pigeons are found in cities all over the world, and are particularly common in Europe, North America, and Australia.
4. Pigeons have a strong homing instinct and can return to their home from long distances. They can fly at speeds of up to 50 miles per hour.
5. Pigeons are known to form monogamous pair bonds and often mate for life. They typically lay one or two eggs at a time and incubate them for around 17 days.
6. Pigeons have a complex communication system, including vocalisations and body language, which they use to communicate with each other.
7. Pigeons have a highly developed sense of taste, and are known to prefer certain types of food over others.
8. Pigeons are known to have excellent memory and can recognize individual humans.
9. Pigeons have been used in many different ways throughout history, including as messengers, in racing, and as a food source.
10. Feral pigeons have been known to cause damage to buildings and statues by their droppings and nesting materials, also they can transmit diseases to human if not handled properly.