Description
The feral or town pigeon nest in or on buildings and other
structures, they can be found on ledges or in hollows, often under
eaves or on girders. Feral pigeons feed in flocks and rely mainly
on spillage at food premises or on scraps, including bread, cake,
grain and “bird seed” given by members of the public.
Biology and Habitat
The pigeon is capable of breeding throughout the year, nests can
be found in any month however the peak occurs between March and
September. Two eggs are laid on consecutive days. The incubation
lasts for about 18 days with fledging taking place about 5 weeks
later. It is possible for a mating pair to produce up to 8 broods
in a year.
Importance
The fouling of buildings and monuments is a frequent problem in
every city and town centre, this is not only unsightly but it can
have a destructive effect as the acidic droppings can erode the
surface of stonework. Gutters and drainpipes may become blocked
leading to flooding and associated problems. Fire escapes and
ladders may become unsafe due to the potential of slipping on
droppings. There are many devices on the market that can be used to
deter birds from nesting, including nettles, gels and spikes.
Disease, particularly from the result of breathing in the dust
of dry droppings could result in lung disease.
Control
The feral pigeon is included in part 2 Schedule 2 of the
Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 and therefore may be taken at
all times by authorised persons.
The methods of control include the use of a “bob wire” cage
trap, which allows pigeons to enter by pushing the “bob wire”
inwards but they are unable to exit the trap. Traps require to be
checked on a daily basis to avoid unnecessary distress. Any ringed
pigeons should be released, un-ringed birds should be killed by
cervical dislocation.
Shooting is another effective method of control, but due to the
nature of this treatment the times and places where this can be
done are limited. Police permission should be obtained before this
type of control is undertaken. A .22 air rifle can be used.
Stupefying baits can also be used but this is not one of the
preferred methods of control due to the amount of manpower/hours
required for a treatment.
Safety
All pesticides used by Bath & North East Somerset Council
are approved substances under the Control of Pesticides Regulations
1986 and are fully risk assessed.
