Are Pigeons A Pest?
We are surrounded by pigeons in London but when do they become a pest which requires action?
Well, pigeons can cause significant risks to both our health and our homes so the easy answer is any pigeon activity around buildings should be discouraged.
What Diseases Do Pigeons Carry?
Pidgeon’s carry diseases such as Ornithosis, Listeria and E-coli as well as a number parasitic insects which can infest homes. When dry, pigeon droppings can become airborne in small particles, which can lead to respiratory complaints such as psittacosis. Droppings are not only toxic but their acidic content is corrosive to buildings. Nesting material often blocks guttering causing buildings to become damp and when chimneys and flues are obstructed this can cause possible dangers with carbon monoxide.
How fast can a pigeon infestation grow?
Pigeons breed up to six times per year usually laying two eggs. They lay their eggs six to twelve days after mating. Young birds reach sexual maturity in six months. So if left unchecked a pair of pigeons could produce forty five plus off spring in the space of one year. However bear in mind that pigeons live in flocks so it would be unlikely to just start with two and go from there.
How fast can a pigeon infestation grow?
Pigeons breed up to six times per year usually laying two eggs. They lay their eggs six to twelve days after mating. Young birds reach sexual maturity in six months. So if left unchecked a pair of pigeons could produce forty five plus off spring in the space of one year. However bear in mind that pigeons live in flocks so it would be unlikely to just start with two and go from there.
