Pigeons can easily move in and take over any sort of property. They can be found all the way from suburban areas to deep within cities. They’re also considered to be prolific breeders, so when you see a few, you’ll likely have a problem sooner than you think. Here are a few tips on how to keep pigeons away from my balcony.
How to Keep Pigeons Away from My Balcony
Looking for ways on how to keep pigeons away from my balcony? Try anti-roosting spikes, commercial gel repellent, create a barrier and more.
Importance of Keeping Pigeons Away
Pigeon droppings can be disgusting, to say the least. Their feces are not only highly acidic but can also attract flies, rats and mice. Pigeon droppings, therefore, can result in significant damage to roofs. They can also cause significant damage to your patio or balcony, staining and threatening outdoor furniture and surfaces. That’s why it’s important to clean them off of your balcony as soon as possible before they do further damage. Similarly, the acidic nature of pigeon droppings can damage your car paint.
One of the easiest ways to prevent pigeons from making your balcony deck, garden, roof or patio their home is to prepare a wind-chime, a decoy hawk or owl, or some shiny rubber snakes in the area. Make sure the decoy is visible to the pigeons as they generally don’t like shiny things that reflect light and burn their eyes.
Anti-Roosting Spikes
Another great way to keep pigeons off your property is to invest in anti-roosting spikes. You can find spikes at your local hardware store and can be attached anywhere where the pigeons can perch such as your balcony, underneath of solar panels, roofs, etc. to keep them off. Installing spikes may be time-consuming and slightly expensive, but it’s a sure-fire way to keep annoying birds and pigeons from your property.
Commercial Gel Repellent
Gel repellent can also work well to keep annoying pigeons from your yard. Just as lavender keeps scorpions away from a home, gel repellent keeps pigeons away from a home. This option is ideal for renters who can’t install a more permanent solution. The gel makes surfaces solid, slippery and sticky, discouraging birds from perching in the area. Be sure to re-apply the gel every few weeks to months as the weather and wind can take their toll on the gel. It’s also critical to ensure any product you use is environmentally safe.
Create a Barrier
Another great way to prevent pigeons from finding a home in your yard is by creating a barrier. For instance, you can install a weather-proof string to keep the feathered invaders from negotiating onto your yard or balcony. Consider tying the string about an inch above your balcony rail to make it difficult for pigeons to gain a foothold on your rail. Installing a mesh screen along the inside of your railing can also help to prevent entry onto your balcony or porch.
Don’t Feed Them
Be sure to keep your trash enclosed and get rid of any food scraps that pigeons will provide food for the pigeons. Feed your pet indoors and clean up after parties or gatherings where food is served, especially around your garden since food can linger around these areas for an extended period of time.
Bird Netting
For out builds and sheds, consider installing bird netting as it’s an effective way to keep pigeons as well as other pests away from your garden.
Bottom Line
Whichever method you choose to keep pigeons away from my balcony, be sure to invest time and effort to make sure it works without hurting them. Be vigilant and don’t back down until the pigeons flee from your premises.
