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As we have discussed in part one of "How to get rid of pigeons in your attic", DIY methods may discourage occasional visitors, but they rarely solve an established pigeon infestation in an attic. In this second part, we'll focus on how and why professional pigeon removal and exclusion provide more long-term solutions.
Professional Attic Inspection: Finding Every Entry Point
Whether it's a residential home or a large commercial space, identifying the root cause of pigeons nesting and roosting in the attic is the first step in resolving the problem. Here's what professionals will do:
- Complete roof inspection
- Entry point identification
- Find nest location(s)
- Identify dropping accumulation
- Assess damages
A complete inspection and assessment is essential before the appropriate pigeon control method is selected.
How To Get Rid of Pigeons in Residential Attic
One-Way Doors
Most often, a one-way door is installed at previously identified entry point(s). It allows the pigeons to leave but blocks their return.
However, pigeon trapping and removal alone does not prevent new pigeons from entering if access points remain open. So, after the birds have been removed, it's time to seal up any openings and prevent new pigeons from entering.
How To Get Rid of Pigeons in Commercial/Industrial Attics
When dealing with a large space in a warehouse, church, or other large attic, there are a lot more opportunities to capture or chase pigeons out.
Pigeon Trapping for Established Attic Infestations
Trapping is an excellent way to reduce established pigeon populations. Did you know that Hawkeye has custom designed traps that work exceedingly well (much better than commercially available traps)? One trap can capture as many as 50 pigeons at a time.
Shooting
Particularly in barn rafters, shooting the pigeons is an option. Learn more here »
Falconry for Large Estate Homes and Institutional Properties
Flying a hawk in a large space, will get rid of the pigeons in a hurry. Being a natural pigeon predator, the hawk signals to the entire flock that this site is no longer safe or suitable. Falconry can be used at/on:
- Large estates
- Heritage properties
- Institutional campuses
- Churches
- Multi-building properties
Attic Cleanup After Pigeon Removal
Not only are pigeon droppings (guano) corrosive and detrimental to structural integrity, but guano also contains viruses, bacteria, and parasites:
- Psittacosis
- Histoplasmosis
- Salmonellosis
- Cryptococcosis
- Avian Influenza
- West Nile Virus
Professional Cleanup After Pigeon Removal
Professional attic pigeon removal must be followed by several other crucial steps:
- Dropping removal
- Insulation assessment
- Odour reduction
- Parasite management
- Restoring attic hygiene before repairs are completed
Exclusion: The Foundation of Long-Term Attic Pigeon Control
Wildlife exclusion prevents re-entry after birds have been physically removed or chased out of the space. When performing exclusion for a pigeon infestation, it's important that you've identified all possible entry points in your initial inspection.
Residential Pigeon Exclusion Methods
- Sealing roof openings
- Vent protection
- Soffit repairs
- Chimney caps
- Fascia repairs
- Durable screening
Pigeon Exclusion Methods for Commercial, Industrial, and Institutional Attics/Rafters
Bird Netting for Large Open Attic Spaces
Netting works well in large open areas, once the pigeons have been driven out. Both product selection that's appropriate to keep out pigeons and proper installation are key.
- Barn-style attics
- Church lofts
- Warehouses converted to residential use
- Aircraft hangars
- Large accessible roof voids
Bird Spikes Around Roof Entry Points
Spikes discourage perching but do not stop pigeons already nesting inside the rafters. Bird spikes are excellent ledge protection products. Choosing the right spike for the space and ensuring proper installation are of utmost importance.
Here are the areas where bird spikes are effective in deterring pigeons:
- Roof ledges
- Window ledges near attic openings
- Gutters (use specialized spikes with clips)
- Ledges adjacent to roof vents
Bird-Shock Flex Track Systems for Narrow Roof Ledges
Low-profile bird shock/electric track systems discourage pigeons and other birds from landing near roof access points. These are installed on the outside of the building, not indoors. In Ontario, these systems work well spring, summer, and fall but lose efficacy when covered with snow.
Bird Slide for Sloped Roof Ledges
Like Bird-Shock, this product is installed on the outside of the building. Ideal locations for installing Bird Slide:
- Decorative architectural ledges
- Wide parapets
- Building projections leading to attic access
How to Get Rid of Pigeon a Nest in Your Attic Safely
Safe pigeon nest removal consists of taking down the nest, removing and destroying of any eggs present, and of disposal of contaminated nesting materials. Professional handling and following strict safety protocol during cleaning and sanitization is necessary to avoid health and safety hazards.
Why Integrated Pigeon Control Gives Better Long-Term Results
Professional pigeon control combines methods and products for effective attic bird control, helping not only to get rid of the birds but also to prevent them or others from coming back. This professional, integrated approach to attic bird control can be tailored based on your property's design, usage, and the extent of the pigeon infestation. Here's what you can expect them to do:
- Inspection
- Trapping
- Nest removal
- Exclusion
- Surface deterrents
- Ongoing monitoring
Contact Hawkeye for Professional, Long-Term Pigeon Control in the GTA
Hawkeye offers 35+ years of experience with attic infestations. Our pigeon control technicians are trained to work at heights, employ humane removal pratices, and provide safe cleanup and sanitation services. Our expert falconers and knowledge of wildlife regulations make us your #1 choice for getting rid of pigeons in your attic permanently.
Contact us today!
Our pigeon removal solutions for attics are available all across Southern Ontario, including Toronto, Scarborough, Brampton, Vaughan, Markham, Ajax, Newmarket, Etobicoke, Oshawa, and Mississauga
