Pigeons - Utah Pigeon Control

Your Guide to Identifying These Flying Salt Lake City Pests

Pigeons, often known as 'rock doves,' are ubiquitous birds recognizable by their plump bodies, short necks, and small heads. Typically cloaked in a grey coat with iridescent feathers that reflect green and purple in the light, they are admired for their beauty but not quite as much for their behavior, especially in urban environments like Salt Lake City. 

Pigeons are sociable creatures, often seen in flocks, scavenging for food, which includes seeds and human leftovers. These birds are incredibly adaptable, thriving in a variety of habitats, which unfortunately include man-made structures where they are less than welcome.

Pigeons are generally regarded as pests because they can cause quite an uproar and mess in the areas they frequent. Their droppings, aside from being unsightly, can cause damage to buildings, monuments, cars, and more due to their acidic nature. Moreover, their nesting habits can clog drains and guttering systems, potentially leading to water damage. The health risks aren't negligible either, as pigeon droppings can harbor pathogens that are responsible for several diseases. While pigeons undoubtedly hold a place in our city's ecosystem, their proliferation in populated areas demands diligent management and control.

What Does a Pigeon Infestation Look Like?

If you're curious about whether you're experiencing a pigeon infestation, there are telltale signs beyond just spotting these birds around your property. Pigeons are creatures of habit, and they leave a distinct trail of evidence indicating their frequent visits or nesting. 

Aside from physical sightings, pigeons tend to leave behind indicators of their presence like: 

• Excessive bird droppings: A buildup of droppings on buildings, statues, cars, or walkways is often the clearest sign of a pigeon problem. These droppings are unsightly and can cause structural damage due to their acidity.
• Nesting materials: Debris from nests, including twigs, feathers, and leaves, can typically be found in sheltered areas such as eaves, roofs, or balcony ledges where pigeons prefer to settle.
• Coos and noises: A continuous "cooing" sound, especially during the early morning, can indicate pigeons roosting nearby.
• Footprints and feather trails: Regular paths covered in footprints and feathers can show you where pigeons frequently walk or gather.

Recognizing these signs early on can prompt proactive steps for pigeon control, sparing you from the larger inconveniences and health risks they bring. 

What Types of Pigeons Live in the Salt Lake City Area?

Salt Lake City is a hospitable environment for several pigeon varieties, each with unique characteristics and behaviors. Whether you're a bird enthusiast or a homeowner keeping an eye out for potential pigeon-related issues, it's helpful to know about the common types you might encounter. 

Salt Lake City is home to multiple pigeon varieties, including: 

• Rock pigeon (Columba livia): This is the most familiar species, often seen in urban centers. They have a varied color palette, but typically, they are grey with two black bars on each wing.
• Band-tailed pigeon (Patagioenas fasciata): Larger than the rock pigeon, with a distinctive white collar on the nape of their necks and a band on their tail.
• Eurasian collared-dove (Streptopelia decaocto): A relative newcomer to North America, these doves have a uniform sandy color with a narrow black band on the back of their necks.

Understanding which pigeons frequent your area can be helpful in both appreciating the local wildlife and in taking effective measures to manage them as part of urban pest control efforts.

How Does Pest Pro Solve Pigeon Problems?

In order to determine which pigeon control method will work best for your particular situation, we will begin with an on-site inspection to determine the nature of the problem. If the pigeons are nesting on a ledge, then weather-resistant bird spikes or bird wire may be installed to make the birds unable to land. If they are on a roof, optical gels may be installed that will deter birds from the area. If nesting on beams near the ceiling, these beams may be netted off to prevent entry. If nesting underneath solar panels, weather-resistant mesh may be installed (after cleaning and sanitizing the area) to prevent entry in the future. If birds have made their way into an attic or soffit, a one-way door may be installed to let the birds out, but not back in. Once all birds are gone, the area will be sanitized and the entry point will be sealed. As you can see, no situation is the same. We offer the latest and greatest in bird control technology and techniques. Call us today!

If you’re dealing with an unwelcome pigeon population, call Pest Pro Pest Control at (385) 314-4973 to request a free pigeon control estimate!