Why pigeons love your home. Have you ever wondered why pigeons seem to have a particular fondness for your home? You’re not alone! Many homeowners find themselves puzzled by the constant cooing and fluttering of these feathered friends around their properties. Understanding why pigeons are drawn to certain homes can offer insights into their behaviour and help you manage their presence. Let’s delve into what makes your home so appealing to pigeons and how you can address the situation effectively.
The Attraction of Urban Environments
Pigeons, also known as rock doves, are incredibly adaptable birds that have thrived in urban environments. Historically, they were cliff-nesting birds, but as human settlements expanded, they found our tall buildings and ledges to be perfect substitutes for their natural habitats. Urban environments offer the same benefits as cliffs: high vantage points for safety and ample spaces to nest.
In cities, pigeons enjoy a smorgasbord of food sources. From discarded food to deliberate feedings, urban areas are a banquet for pigeons. Additionally, our buildings provide an abundance of sheltered spaces where pigeons can roost and breed away from predators. All these factors make cities an ideal environment for these adaptable birds. Unfortunately, there are disease carried by pigeons and they can cause damage to your building, which is why you always have to address an infestation on your property.
Why Pigeons Choose Specific Homes
Not all homes are equally attractive to pigeons. Certain features make your property more appealing. For example, flat roofs, large ledges, and sheltered nooks offer perfect spots for roosting and nesting. If your home has these features, it’s more likely to catch a pigeon’s eye.
Food is another crucial factor. If you have a bird feeder, compost bin, or even a messy garden, pigeons will quickly take notice. The availability of food can turn your home into a prime destination for these birds. Additionally, if your home is near a park or a water source, pigeons will be even more inclined to frequent your property.
Pigeon Social Behaviour
Pigeons are social creatures that thrive in flocks. Their behaviour is influenced by their need to stay connected with others of their kind. When a pigeon finds a suitable spot, it often attracts more pigeons due to its social nature. This means if a few pigeons start hanging around your home, they might soon be joined by many more.
Nesting is another critical aspect of pigeon behaviour. Pigeons prefer to nest in places that offer safety and shelter. If your home provides these, it can quickly become a favoured nesting site. They are also known for their loyalty to their chosen nesting spots, which can lead to recurring visits if the conditions remain favourable.
Other Problems Pigeons Can Cause
Pigeons are assumed to be harmless birds in urban areas. While they don’t tend to be aggressive, they cause a bunch of other problems that need to be taken seriously. We’ve already talked about the diseases they can carry. But, there’s so much more than you need to know. Let’s take a look at other serious problems pigeons can cause and why you must do everything you can to move them on quickly.
Damage to Your Building
Undoubtedly, bird guano is unsightly. But did you know that pigeon droppings can actually be harmful to your property? Most people don’t realise until it’s too late that droppings are highly acidic. This means that if they’re left on a surface, it can corrode that material. For example, this can happen to concrete and even stone. Therefore, your property will age before its time, which can devalue your home or business property. There’s even the possibility of structural damage.
Makes Pavements Slippery
If there’s an accumulation of bird guano on pavements, it can become slippery. This is particularly true when it becomes compacted, and it’s raining outside. The last thing you want is for a member of your family to have an accident and fall. There are bird guano services you can use to safely clean up the mess. But, the only way to stop it from becoming a problem again is to have bird control solutions installed. This will prevent your property from becoming dangerous.
Block Gutters
If pigeons start to nest on your property, they’re going to need to gather materials. This can include anything from leaves and twigs to other debris. But, they’re known to drop some of their way. This can be something that blocks your gutters. When this happens, the water can’t drain away effectively from your home. This can cause many problems that must be dealt with. Unfortunately, even if you get your gutters cleared, there’s a chance that the problem can return if pigeons stick around.
Conclusion
In summary, pigeons are drawn to urban environments for many reasons, and your home might be particularly attractive due to its features and the availability of food. Understanding their behaviour can help you manage their presence effectively. By taking proactive measures, you can enjoy a pigeon-free home while appreciating the fascinating nature of these resilient birds.
