Pigeons

About Pigeons

Pigeons, often referred to as rock doves, are common urban birds found in cities and towns worldwide. These adaptable birds thrive in various environments, including urban landscapes, parks, and rural areas. Pigeons are known for their homing ability and have been used historically for carrying messages. Despite their ubiquity and adaptability, pigeons can sometimes pose challenges when they inhabit areas in close proximity to humans, necessitating effective management strategies.

What Do Pigeons Look Like?

Pigeons are medium-sized birds, typically measuring 11 to 14 inches in length and weighing around 9 to 13 ounces. They have a plump body, short neck, and a small head with a distinctive rounded shape. Their plumage varies widely but commonly features shades of gray with iridescent feathers on the neck and wings that can shimmer in hues of green, purple, and blue. Pigeons have orange-red eyes and a white or pale gray beak with a soft, fleshy cere at the base. Their legs and feet are usually pinkish-red, and they have strong wings adapted for swift and agile flight.

Facts About Pigeons Gestation

Pigeons have a relatively short gestation period. After mating, the female lays one or two eggs, typically in a nest built from twigs and debris. The eggs are incubated by both parents for about 17 to 19 days. Upon hatching, the chicks, known as squabs, are altricial, meaning they are born helpless and require extensive parental care. Both parents feed the squabs a nutrient-rich substance known as “pigeon milk,” produced in their crops. Squabs fledge, or leave the nest, at about 25 to 32 days old, although they continue to rely on their parents for food and protection for a short period afterward.

Pigeons Habitat and Behavior

Pigeons are highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of environments, but they are most commonly found in urban areas where food and nesting sites are plentiful. They prefer to roost on ledges, under bridges, in barns, and on rooftops. Pigeons are gregarious and often form large flocks. They are primarily granivorous, feeding on seeds and grains, but they also scavenge for food scraps in cities. Pigeons have remarkable homing abilities and can find their way back to their nests from long distances. Their social behavior includes a range of vocalizations and displays used to communicate with each other.

What Are 5 Unique Facts About Pigeons?

1. Pigeons have been used for centuries as message carriers due to their exceptional homing abilities, often covering distances of up to 600 miles.
2. They are one of the few bird species that produce “pigeon milk,” a nutrient-rich substance fed to their young.
3. Pigeons have an incredible sense of direction, believed to be aided by the Earth’s magnetic field and the position of the sun.
4. They can recognize human faces and remember them over long periods, distinguishing between friendly and unfriendly individuals.
5. Pigeons have been studied extensively for their navigation and learning abilities, contributing to scientific understanding of avian intelligence and behavior.

What Are the Problems Related to Pigeons?

Pigeons can cause several problems, particularly in urban areas where they are abundant. Their droppings are highly acidic and can damage buildings, monuments, and vehicles, leading to costly cleaning and repairs. Pigeons can also create unsanitary conditions, as their nests and droppings can harbor parasites and pathogens that pose health risks to humans. Their presence can lead to infestations of mites, ticks, and fleas. Pigeons can also be a nuisance in public spaces, roosting on ledges and creating noise and mess. Additionally, large flocks can pose risks to aviation by interfering with aircraft during takeoff and landing.

What Are the Risks Associated with Pigeons?

The primary risks associated with pigeons involve health hazards and property damage. Pigeon droppings can carry diseases such as histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, and psittacosis, which can be transmitted to humans through inhalation of contaminated dust. Their nests can harbor parasites like mites, ticks, and fleas, which can infest homes and buildings. The acidic nature of pigeon droppings can corrode building materials, causing structural damage over time. In addition, large flocks of pigeons can pose risks to aviation safety by potentially colliding with aircraft. Managing these risks requires effective control measures to minimize pigeon populations and their impact on human environments.

Get Rid of Pigeons Treatment

To get rid of pigeons, start by removing food sources and ensuring that trash is securely stored. Install physical barriers, such as bird spikes, nets, or wire mesh, to prevent pigeons from roosting on ledges, rooftops, and other structures. Use deterrents like reflective objects, ultrasonic devices, or predator decoys to scare pigeons away from your property. Regularly clean and disinfect areas where pigeons have roosted to remove attractants. In cases of severe infestations, consider hiring a professional pest control service to implement proper control measures. Consistent maintenance and exclusion techniques are essential for long-term pigeon control.

Pigeons Prevention Advice

Preventing pigeon infestations involves proactive measures and regular maintenance. Eliminate food sources by securely storing trash and avoiding feeding pigeons. Install physical barriers, such as bird spikes, nets, or wire mesh, to prevent pigeons from roosting on buildings and other structures. Use deterrents like reflective objects, ultrasonic devices, or predator decoys to discourage pigeons from settling on your property. Regularly inspect and clean potential roosting sites to make them less attractive. Educate community members about the importance of not feeding pigeons to reduce their population growth. Implementing these preventive measures can help keep pigeon populations under control and protect your property.