Pigeons carry parasites that can be transferred to people, as well as three serious “bird diseases”: cryptococcosis, histoplasmosis and psittacosis. Their droppings are both abundant and toxic too; one pigeon can produce about 25 pounds of droppings per year, drawing flies, mice and rats, which carry their own share of diseases. Pigeon droppings are so acidic that they can also stain and eat away at the surface of roof tiles, which can result in roof leaks.

As much as they favor urban areas, pigeons are known to flock and build nests in residential areas too. Pigeons carry diseases, so it’s important to take certain steps to keep them at bay. Below are some of the top ways to keep your property a pigeon-free zone.

How to Keep Your Home Pigeon-Free

If you see a pigeon nest, remove it. They may try to rebuild it but will likely give up and move elsewhere. You can also deter pigeons from your home by:

• Removing bird feeders
• Keeping your garbage cans covered
• Cleaning up after your pets
• Emptying fountains or other containers of water 
• Hanging chimes, pinwheels or Mylar balloons, or placing a life-like statue of an owl, falcon or hawk in the yard
• Installing anti-roosting spikes on your roof

Many homeowners realize they have a pigeon problem after discovering droppings, which should be removed immediately so that they don’t spread germs. Mix a bleach solution containing one part bleach to nine parts of water, and be sure to cover your arms, legs, hands, and eyes while you:

• Soak the infested area with the bleach solution for at least 15 minutes.
• Scrape up the feces with a shovel.
• Place it in a heavy plastic bag and dispose of it.
• Cover the area with liquid laundry detergent or dish soap and scrub it with a stiff brush.
• Rinse the area with water.
• Reapply the bleach solution and let it sit for another 15 minutes. Do not rinse it; let it air-dry before allowing people and pets back to the area.

Schedule a Roof Inspection

Routine roof inspections will help ensure your roof stays clean and free of pigeons. Contact us at 702-262-7847 to schedule your 14-point inspection today!