Why Are Pigeons Such A Problem In Big Cities?

Everywhere in the world, a big city is practically synonymous with a pigeon problem, with some places (like New York City, for example) experiencing a bigger pigeon situation than others.

But in most large cities, pigeons are there, up and at it, creating a general hassle for any bird control service on the market.

So what’s up with pigeons and big cities? And why are they such a problem?

Well, the trouble, one could argue, didn’t start with pigeons, but rather with us. As human cities continue to expand, the fewer natural, wild spaces there are for animals to exist in. That’s also how you account for the immense rat problem in many big cities. Basically, these animals will be attracted to any place populated by humans, as this offers them plentiful food and water sources, and in many cases, shelter. Living near or even inside human constructions can keep pigeons and other wild animals safe from larger predators, while also providing easy access to food and water.

So that’s why where there’s a big city, there will be a bunch of pigeons, just hanging about.

Are pigeons really a problem?

What’s interesting is that depending on who you ask, people will have wildly different opinions about pigeons. While some view them as a beautiful symbol of purity and peace, others refer to them as nothing more than winged rats. So there’s quite a lot of room for judgment here. Because of this wide range of opinions on the matter, it’s often asked whether pigeons are actually a problem in big cities, or if we’re just being stubborn about it.

But in truth, a dense pigeon population will cause some concerns, like:

• Exposure to disease – pigeons are notorious for carrying a number of diseases, some of which can, in the right circumstances, prove fatal, particularly to elderly citizens, or young children with a weakened immune system.
• Pigeon feces is extremely corrosive – accumulation of feces on the surface of buildings and cars will, in time, lead to the corrosion and destruction of said surfaces.
• They’re noisy – this is a particular problem for city-dwellers during the warmer months, aka pigeon mating season, when the birds will begin cooing and flapping around, building nests on ledges, window sills, and so on.

A good first step to take if you live in a pigeon-heavy area would be to learn at pestcontrolbird.com about best practices for bird control, and how to deter them from setting up a nest on your property.

It’s also worth keeping in mind that high-count pigeon populations can cause other issues, like blocked ventilation, obstructed drains, and other similar concerns. This can impede the proper working of your ventilation and drainage system, and in turn, create more problems for you.

Why are pigeons so difficult to control?

Well, the thing about many wild animals is that, regardless how bold they may be in their quest for food and shelter, they still retain a natural fear of humans. Pigeons, on the other hand, don’t. Or rather, pigeons are afraid in the sense that they’ll fly away if they feel like you’re cornering them. But, as many city-dwellers know, pigeons will be unabashed and in your face even when you go near them. They’ll fly straight into your hair, or sit on the same park bench as you, ruining even the most romantic of dates.

Generally, it’s recommended to avoid direct contact with pigeons, their nests, or their droppings, as all of these can expose you to disease. So if you’re dealing with a pigeon infestation, it might be best if you left it up to a professional. Companies like Wildlife X Team New Hampshire will come with the necessary experience and the right protective gear to handle a pigeon infestation in a secure, and safe environment.

While ridding the city of a pigeon problem is the concern of the city mayor, and local authorities, if you need someone to handle a pigeon problem at your work or your apartment, we recommend reaching out to a professional. Once again, don’t attempt DIY pigeon removal, as it can get messy, not to mention dangerous for your health!