Pigeon Control for GTA Construction Sites

Large congregations of feral pigeons can become a considerable problem at construction sites, damaging equipment and causing delays. Issues include droppings on work surfaces, nesting in unfinished structures, contamination of materials, and repeated cleanup.

This calls for professional pigeon control that can accommodate changing site layouts, worker safety, and construction schedules.

Why Do Pigeons Gather at GTA Construction Sites?

• Unfinished roofs, beams, and ledges provide places to perch and roost.
• Openings in partially completed buildings can allow pigeons to enter and nest.
• Scaffolding and structural recesses may create temporary shelter.
• Food waste and spilled materials can attract pigeons to active sites.
• Once pigeons establish a nesting location, they may continue returning even as construction progresses.
  
  

Where Do Pigeons Nest on Construction Sites?

• Exposed steel beams and roof trusses
• Unfinished roof structures and parapets
• Scaffolding and sheltered platforms
• Openings in partially enclosed buildings
• Structural cavities and façade recesses
• Temporary storage structures and covered material areas
• Inside unused equipment
  
  

How to Get Rid of Pigeons from Construction Sites

As is the case with all bird control, no one measure or one-time application can deter pigeons long-term. It takes finding the right combination of methods to ensure continuing success.

Falconry for Open Construction Areas

A trained bird of prey deters pigeons from large, open areas of a construction site. Making use of the natural predator/prey relationship between raptors and pest birds, a skilled falconer will fly his bird and sometimes target the strongest pigeon to make the entire flock leave in great haste. Falconry for pigeon control is highly successful but has to be repeated until the pigeons no longer return to an area that is now unsafe and unsuitable for roosting and nesting.

Bird Netting for Unfinished Structures

• Use netting to exclude pigeons from suitable enclosed sections, roof structures, or sheltered areas.
• Plan installation around construction phases so the netting doesn't obstruct work or access.
• Have qualified professionals install and maintain it. Poorly fitted or damaged netting can entangle birds.
• Reassess it as the structure changes and remove or reposition it when necessary.
  
  

Bird Spikes and Wire for Completed Sections

Both spikes and wire are ledge protection systems and can work exceedingly well for pigeon removal at construction sites if the right product is installed correctly.

• Install appropriate physical deterrents on ledges, beams, and roof edges where pigeons repeatedly perch.
• Best suited to defined surfaces that won't need frequent construction access.
• Coordinate professional installation with contractors so deterrents don't interfere with other trades or create worker hazards.
• Spikes are generally a deterrent for landing, not a solution for an established nest already occupying the location.
  
  

Pigeon Trapping and Removal

Pigeon traps are not all the same. It's important to choose the right traps for the job and be able to monitor them. Well designed traps can hold up to 50 pigeons.

• Consider professional trapping where pigeons repeatedly gather in an accessible part of the site.
• This may help with established local concentrations but is not a practical standalone solution for every open construction site.
• Trapping must be monitored and handled appropriately, with attention to applicable wildlife rules.
  
  

Close Access to Completed Building Sections

• Screen or seal openings once the relevant construction work is complete and the building design allows it.
• Fit appropriate covers to vents, cavities, and other potential entry points.
• Coordinate exclusion with the construction team so openings needed for active work remain accessible until they can safely be closed.
  
  

Manage Food Waste and Site Attractants

One of the biggest draws for pigeons is access to food, often left behind by the construction crew. While managing food availability won't solve problems with already established pigeons, it can deter new birds from settling in.

• Keep food waste in secured bins.
• Clean up spilled food around worker break areas.
• Avoid leaving accessible waste or other pigeon food sources around the site.
• Keep water from accumulating where practical.
  
  

How to Get Rid of Pigeon Nests on Construction Sites

• Discuss what they should do if they find any pigeon nests on their construction site.
• Explain that a nest can be removed simply because it is in the way of construction.
• Mention the legal angle - active nests, eggs, and birds may be protected under applicable federal or Ontario rules, depending on the circumstances.
• Suggest hiring professional to get rid of pigeon nests to avoid unnecessary damage and legal conflicts.
  
  

After lawful nest management, close off or modify the nesting location when the construction schedule permits, reducing the chance of rebuilding.

When Should Construction Sites Start Pigeon Control?

An assessment before the start of construction can ensure that the site can be dealt with before delays become necessary.

• Before construction begins: identify existing pigeon roosts and nesting areas during site assessment.
• During structural framing: monitor exposed beams, roof trusses, and other sheltered locations as they become accessible.
• Before building sections are enclosed: address pigeon access while openings and cavities can still be inspected.
• Before project handover: check completed roofs, ledges, and cavities for recurring pigeon activity and install appropriate exclusion where needed.
  
  

Why Construction Sites Need an Ongoing Pigeon Control Plan

• Site conditions change as the building develops.
• Temporary barriers can become ineffective when scaffolding or structural layouts change.
• A deterrent that works in one phase may obstruct the next phase of construction.
• Regular inspections and coordination between the site manager, contractors, and bird-control professionals help prevent repeat problems.
  
  

Contact Hawkeye to Get Rid of Pigeons from Construction Sites

Hawkeye’s professional pigeon control and removal services include trained birds of prey flown by expert commercial falconers as well as custom, proprietary and highly effective pigeon traps. We offer customized solutions depending on property type and bird pressure including professional installation of exclusion products and systems. 

Take advantage of our 35+ years of experience with pest birds and wildlife removal and get started today on pest bird control for your construction site. Call for an assessment today!

Our pigeon removal solutions for construction sites are available all across Southern Ontario, including Toronto, Scarborough, Brampton, Vaughan, Markham, Ajax, Newmarket, Etobicoke, Oshawa, and Mississauga

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https://www.hawkeye.ca/industry-location-specific-bird-control