Pigeons may be a familiar sight in cities and industrial areas, but when they start nesting on your property, they become more than just a nuisance. These birds can cause extensive damage to buildings, contaminate workspaces with droppings, and even pose serious health risks to employees, customers, and residents. Whether you’re managing a warehouse, office complex, or commercial facility, effective pigeon control is essential to maintaining a clean, safe environment.

At Fieldtech Integrated Pest Solutions, we specialize in sustainable pest management programs designed to eliminate and prevent infestations—without relying on unnecessary pesticide use. Our team follows Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles and EPA-compliant protocols, ensuring that every solution we provide is both environmentally responsible and highly effective.

In this article, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about pigeon control, including:

• How do I permanently get rid of pigeons?
  
• What is the best deterrent for pigeons?
  
• What is the best pigeon killer?
  
• How do exterminators get rid of pigeons?
  
• What smell do pigeons hate the most?
  
• What are pigeons afraid of?
  

We’ll also show how our approach to bird control aligns with our broader pest control services, which include:

• Ant control
  
• Flea control
  
• Bedbug control
  
• Cockroach control
  
• Rodent control
  
• Wasp control
  
• Spider control
  

Let’s dive into how you can keep pigeons away for good—safely, humanely, and permanently.

How Do I Permanently Get Rid of Pigeons?

Permanently getting rid of pigeons requires more than just scaring them off or cleaning up after them. Pigeons are creatures of habit—they return to the same nesting and roosting spots unless the environment becomes truly uninhabitable for them. To stop the cycle, you need a comprehensive, long-term pigeon control strategy.

Here’s what that typically includes:

1. Eliminate Food and Water Sources

Pigeons are opportunistic feeders. If your property offers easy access to trash, standing water, open dumpsters, or even bird feeders, you’re unintentionally inviting them to stay.

• Keep waste containers sealed.
  
• Fix outdoor leaks or drainage issues.
  
• Discourage feeding wildlife around your facility.
  

2. Remove Nesting and Roosting Opportunities

Pigeons prefer flat, sheltered spaces like ledges, rooflines, HVAC units, attics, and signage.

• Seal off entry points to lofts and roof cavities.
  
• Use mesh or netting to block access to high roosting spots.
  
• Apply slope panels or angled barriers to prevent them from perching.
  

3. Install Physical Deterrents

Physical exclusion is one of the most reliable ways to prevent pigeons from settling.

• Bird spikes deter roosting on ledges and sills.
  
• Bird netting is highly effective in covering loading docks, canopies, or parking structures.
  
• Shock tracks provide a mild, harmless electric pulse that teaches birds to avoid the area.
  

4. Professional Assessment and Customized Plan

Every building is different. What works for one site may not work for another. That’s why our experts at Fieldtech create custom bird control plans based on your structure, activity level, and pigeon behavior.

Our process aligns with our methods for rodent control, spider control, and cockroach control—we look at environmental conditions, entry points, attractants, and more to design the most effective long-term solution.

What Is the Best Deterrent for Pigeons?

When it comes to pigeon control, the best deterrent combines a variety of methods that make your property an inhospitable environment for these persistent birds. The goal is to disrupt their behavior and make it clear that your building is not a suitable place to nest or roost.

1. Physical Deterrents

The most effective deterrents create obstacles that prevent pigeons from perching or nesting in key areas. These methods provide a long-term solution and are often the foundation of any bird control plan.

• Bird Spikes: These are one of the most common and effective physical deterrents. Installed on ledges, rooftops, and sills, bird spikes prevent pigeons from landing and roosting without harming them.
  
• Bird Netting: Perfect for large or hard-to-reach areas like loading docks, attics, or warehouses, bird netting blocks pigeons from accessing spaces where they may otherwise settle. It’s discreet and highly effective at keeping pigeons out.
  
• Shock Tracks: These tracks give pigeons a mild electrical shock when they land, training them to avoid the area. The shock is harmless but highly effective at deterring pigeons from roosting in certain locations.
  

2. Visual and Auditory Deterrents

Pigeons, like many birds, are sensitive to movement and unfamiliar stimuli. By using visual or auditory deterrents, you can disrupt their sense of security and discourage them from settling near your property.

• Reflective Surfaces: Mirrors, aluminum foil strips, and reflective tape can confuse pigeons and make them feel unsafe. These visual deterrents are especially effective when used on windows, signs, and high ledges.
  
• Predator Decoys: Fake owls or hawks are designed to mimic natural pigeon predators. Placed strategically around your property, these decoys scare pigeons away due to their instinctive fear of predators.
  
• Ultrasonic Sound Devices: These devices emit high-frequency sounds that are unpleasant for pigeons but largely inaudible to humans. By disrupting the pigeons’ comfort zone, they encourage birds to find a quieter, safer place to roost.
  

3. Natural Repellents

While physical deterrents are often the most reliable, natural repellents can also be part of your strategy, especially when combined with other methods. Pigeons tend to avoid areas with strong, unpleasant smells, and certain scents can be used to encourage them to leave.

• Peppermint oil, cinnamon, and garlic are some of the most effective scents that pigeons dislike.
  
• Cayenne pepper and vinegar can also be used to create DIY sprays or to clean areas where pigeons have roosted.
  

Though these natural remedies can be helpful, they’re often only temporary solutions. For lasting protection, it’s best to incorporate them with physical exclusion methods and professional deterrents.

4. Repellents and Deterrents in Other Pest Control Services

Interestingly, many of the methods we use for pigeon control overlap with solutions we offer in other areas of pest management. For example:

• Rodent control: Exclusion methods like sealing cracks and entry points are similar to those used to prevent pigeons from accessing areas of your property.
  
• Spider control: Like pigeons, spiders can be deterred using visual and physical barriers, such as webs or nets, along with environmental adjustments.
  
• Wasp control: Visual deterrents like reflective surfaces and predator decoys can also be useful for keeping wasps away from sensitive areas.
  

By applying the same principles across various pest control services—whether you’re managing cockroach control, flea control, or bedbug control—we create a holistic, integrated approach that offers long-term results for your property.

What Is the Best Pigeon Killer?

While the question of what is the “best pigeon killer” may come up, it’s important to clarify that humane, sustainable, and long-term solutions should always be prioritized over lethal methods. At Fieldtech Integrated Pest Solutions, we are committed to Integrated Pest Management (IPM), which focuses on preventing pest problems through natural, non-toxic means rather than resorting to harmful chemicals or killing animals.

Why Killing Pigeons Isn’t the Best Solution

The truth is, simply eliminating pigeons through lethal methods is not a permanent solution. Pigeons can return if the underlying conditions aren’t addressed. For example:

• Nesting sites remain accessible.
  
• Food sources (such as open trash bins) continue to attract new birds.
  
• Lack of deterrents leaves the same areas vulnerable to new flocks.
  

By focusing solely on killing pigeons, you only remove the symptom, not the cause. Extermination rarely leads to lasting results, and it may even encourage new pigeons to move into the area, further compounding the problem.

Humane Alternatives to Killing Pigeons

Instead of resorting to dangerous or ineffective pigeon killers, Fieldtech focuses on methods that safely and humanely control the pigeon population. These include:

• Exclusion and proofing: By sealing entry points, blocking roosting areas, and installing deterrents like bird spikes and netting, we can prevent pigeons from nesting and roosting around your property. This is the most effective way to permanently get rid of pigeons.
  
• Live trapping: In certain situations, live traps may be used to safely capture pigeons. After trapping, the birds are either relocated or humanely euthanized under appropriate regulations. Live trapping is always a last resort and used only when other methods are not feasible.
  
• Avicides (Pigeon Poison): Avicides are a specific type of bird poison designed to target pigeons. However, avicides are regulated by the EPA, and their use is strictly controlled. They are only used when absolutely necessary and in compliance with local laws.
  

What About Other Pest Control Methods?

As with pigeon control, when dealing with other pests—whether it’s rodent control, cockroach control, or bedbug control—we always focus on prevention over elimination. This is why IPM methods are so effective. They focus on habitat modification, exclusion, and the use of non-toxic deterrents before turning to chemicals or lethal options.

The goal is to maintain the safety of your property while avoiding unnecessary harm to the environment and wildlife.

Focus on Prevention for Long-Term Success

To truly resolve a pigeon problem, prevention is key. By implementing measures like:

• Proper sanitation to eliminate food sources,
  
• Exclusion techniques to prevent access to roosting spots,
  
• Humane deterrents to make the area uncomfortable for pigeons,
  

You ensure that the problem doesn’t recur and that your property remains free of pigeons for the long term.

How Do Exterminators Get Rid of Pigeons?

When you hire a professional pest control company to handle a pigeon infestation, they follow a structured, systematic approach to ensure that the problem is addressed thoroughly and humanely. At Fieldtech Integrated Pest Solutions, we provide comprehensive pigeon control services that go beyond simple extermination. Our process is designed to eliminate the root causes of the infestation while protecting your property in the long term.

1. Initial Inspection and Assessment

The first step in pigeon control is a detailed inspection of your property. An experienced technician will assess the structure, pinpoint potential nesting areas, and identify food and water sources that may be attracting pigeons. The inspection will also include looking for gaps in the building where pigeons might be entering—common entry points include:

• Rooflines
  
• Vents
  
• Attic spaces
  
• Eaves and ledges
  

At this stage, a customized bird control plan will be developed based on the specifics of your building and the severity of the pigeon problem. This step is crucial for ensuring that the right combination of methods is used to address the issue.

2. Sanitation and Cleanup

Once the inspection is complete, the next step is sanitation. Pigeon droppings and nesting materials need to be removed to prevent further attraction of pigeons and to minimize health risks associated with their waste. Pigeons carry parasites like mites and lice, which can spread to humans. Their droppings also pose a health hazard, potentially carrying diseases like histoplasmosis, salmonella, and E. coli.

During this cleanup phase, our team will:

• Safely remove droppings and nesting materials.
  
• Decontaminate affected areas.
  
• Properly dispose of any contaminated materials to prevent further spread of disease.
  

This process is similar to how we handle rodent control and cockroach control, where we clean up contaminated areas before implementing exclusion measures.

3. Exclusion and Physical Deterrents

After cleaning, the next priority is to exclude pigeons from your property and prevent them from returning. This is done by installing a variety of physical deterrents and sealing entry points. These include:

• Bird spikes on ledges, sills, and other potential perching spots.
  
• Bird netting to block access to attics, vents, and other entry points.
  
• Slope panels or bird-wire systems on rooftops to discourage roosting.
  

By making it difficult or impossible for pigeons to find a comfortable place to rest, we ensure they will not return to your property.

4. Repellents and Other Deterrents

In addition to physical deterrents, repellents may also be used as part of the plan. These may include:

• Ultrasonic sound devices, which emit high-frequency sounds that are unpleasant for pigeons.
  
• Reflective surfaces or predator decoys that make pigeons feel unsafe in the area.
  

These methods are often used in conjunction with the physical deterrents mentioned above to further disrupt pigeons’ comfort zones.

5. Ongoing Monitoring and Maintenance

Pigeon control is not a one-time fix. After the initial treatments, our team will monitor the situation to ensure that pigeons do not return. Regular follow-up visits will help catch any potential problems early, and we will continue to make adjustments to the deterrents if necessary.

This ongoing maintenance is similar to our approach to flea control, spider control, and wasp control, where we ensure that pest problems are kept at bay through regular inspections and preventive measures.

What Smell Do Pigeons Hate the Most?

Pigeons, like many animals, have a keen sense of smell, and there are several scents that they find unpleasant. By using these natural repellents, you can help deter pigeons from roosting and nesting on your property. However, it’s important to note that while smells can be part of the solution, they should always be combined with other effective methods like physical deterrents and exclusion to ensure long-term success.

1. Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil is one of the most effective natural deterrents for pigeons. The strong, minty scent is overwhelming to pigeons and makes the area uncomfortable for them. It’s a popular choice for DIY pigeon control, and it’s easy to apply by soaking cotton balls in peppermint oil and placing them near pigeon-prone areas, like ledges or rooflines.

While peppermint oil can be a helpful repellent, it’s best used in combination with other methods for maximum effectiveness, as its scent may dissipate over time.

2. Garlic

Garlic is another smell that pigeons find off-putting. The strong odor can discourage them from settling in certain areas. You can create a homemade garlic spray by mixing garlic extract with water and spraying it around your property. It’s also a good idea to scatter chopped garlic cloves in areas where pigeons tend to gather.

Similar to peppermint oil, garlic can be a temporary solution. It works best when used in conjunction with physical deterrents like bird spikes or netting.

3. Chili and Cayenne Pepper

Pigeons have a heightened sense of taste and smell, and the spicy scent of cayenne pepper or chili can irritate their nasal passages. Sprinkling cayenne pepper around the affected areas, or mixing it with water to create a spray, can make these spaces less inviting for pigeons.

However, this method may not work as a long-term solution on its own. It’s best when combined with the physical deterrents and exclusion techniques we use for bird control.

4. Vinegar

Vinegar is another strong-smelling substance that pigeons dislike. The acidity and pungency of vinegar can disrupt pigeons’ comfort, and it can be used to clean areas where pigeons have roosted, removing the scent marks they leave behind. This can help make the area less attractive to them.

Vinegar works well in conjunction with other methods like sealing entry points and using reflective surfaces to disorient pigeons. It’s an excellent way to clean and maintain the effectiveness of other deterrents.

5. Predatory Scents

In addition to scents that pigeons find unpleasant, certain predatory scents can also act as effective deterrents. For example, the smell of hawks or owls can mimic the presence of predators, making pigeons feel unsafe and prompting them to leave the area. Using predator decoys like plastic owls or hawks is a great way to create a visual and olfactory deterrent for pigeons.

6. Combining Smells with Physical Deterrents

While strong smells can certainly make an environment uncomfortable for pigeons, they are most effective when combined with physical deterrents such as bird spikes, netting, and shock tracks. These physical measures block pigeons from roosting and nesting, and the added scents can further deter them from staying in the area.

Using a holistic approach that includes sanitation, exclusion, and natural repellents provides the best long-term results in controlling pigeon populations and keeping your property free of these birds.

What Are Pigeons Afraid Of?

Understanding what pigeons are afraid of can be a crucial element in keeping them away from your property. Like many animals, pigeons have natural instincts that make them wary of certain threats. By mimicking these threats, you can effectively create an environment that discourages pigeons from settling on your property.

1. Predators

Pigeons, being prey animals, are naturally afraid of predators such as hawks, owls, and falcons. When pigeons sense the presence of these birds, they instinctively flee to safer locations. You can take advantage of this fear by using predator decoys—such as plastic owls, falcons, or even life-sized models of hawks—around your property. These decoys act as a visual deterrent, causing pigeons to avoid areas where they feel threatened.

• Predator decoys work especially well when placed in areas where pigeons frequently roost or nest, such as on rooftops, ledges, and near windows.
  
• Moving the decoys periodically can increase their effectiveness, as pigeons will see them as an ever-present danger.
  

2. Loud Noises and Disturbance

Pigeons are easily startled by loud noises, which can trigger their flight response. Sudden, unpredictable sounds that simulate predator activity or environmental hazards can make pigeons feel unsafe. Ultrasonic sound devices, which emit high-frequency sounds beyond the range of human hearing, can irritate pigeons and encourage them to leave your property. These sounds are often paired with other deterrents to disrupt pigeons’ comfort zones.

• You can also use loud noises like air horns or even clapping to scare pigeons away temporarily.
  
• For a more permanent solution, motion-activated devices that make sudden sounds can be effective in keeping pigeons from settling in the same areas.
  

3. Visual Distractions

Pigeons are very sensitive to visual disturbances. Flashing lights, moving objects, and reflective surfaces can all disorient pigeons and make them feel uneasy in the area. Incorporating these visual deterrents can be a great way to scare pigeons off without causing harm.

• Reflective surfaces, like strips of aluminum foil, mirrors, or reflective tape, can create an unsettling effect that pigeons find difficult to ignore. The bright, glimmering surfaces make pigeons uncomfortable and reduce their chances of landing in the area.
  
• Motion-activated lights can also be used to create a sense of danger, especially when placed near roosting sites. The sudden flashes of light simulate the movement of predators or changing environments, prompting pigeons to move on.
  

4. Instability and Unpredictable Surfaces

Pigeons prefer stable, safe locations to roost and nest. Areas that are unstable or uncomfortable to land on can easily drive them away. By creating unsteady surfaces or altering the structure of potential roosting spots, you can make pigeons feel unsafe.

• Bird spikes are an excellent tool for preventing pigeons from landing on ledges and sills. The spikes create an unstable surface that pigeons can’t comfortably rest on, prompting them to search for more suitable places to roost.
  
• Slope panels can be installed to alter the angles of flat surfaces, making them unappealing to pigeons looking for a comfortable perch.
  

5. Chemical Scents or Tastes

As mentioned earlier, pigeons also have a heightened sensitivity to certain smells and tastes. Spicy scents like cayenne pepper or chili, or bitter-tasting substances like methyl anthranilate, can deter pigeons from landing or feeding in certain areas. The use of these deterrents capitalizes on pigeons’ aversion to strong, pungent odors.

While these smells are generally not as effective as physical deterrents, they can be useful in combination with other methods.

By understanding what pigeons fear and using that information to design your pigeon control strategy, you can create an environment that discourages them from taking up residence on your property. Combining these fears with exclusion techniques, repellents, and physical barriers ensures a comprehensive and humane solution for keeping pigeons at bay.

Other Pest Control Services We Offer

At Fieldtech Integrated Pest Solutions, we pride ourselves on providing comprehensive and effective pest control services. While our pigeon control solutions are tailored to address bird-related concerns, we offer a wide range of pest control services to protect both the interior and exterior of your property. Whether you’re dealing with common household pests or more complex infestations, we have the expertise to safeguard your home or business from unwanted intruders.

1. Ant Control

Ants may seem harmless at first, but they can quickly become a nuisance, especially when they invade your kitchen, pantry, or other areas of your property. From carpenter ants to fire ants, each species has its own set of habits and needs. At Fieldtech, we identify the type of ant, locate the nest, and employ targeted ant control techniques to eliminate the infestation and prevent further problems.

Our methods include:

• Baiting and trapping to reduce ant populations.
  
• Targeting nesting sites and entry points.
  
• Long-term prevention strategies to keep ants at bay.
  

2. Flea Control

Fleas are not just a pet problem; they can quickly infest your home or business, causing irritation and discomfort. Our flea control services are designed to target both adult fleas and their larvae, effectively breaking the flea lifecycle. Using both targeted treatments and preventive measures, we can ensure your property is flea-free.

We offer:

• Environmentally safe treatments for pets and interiors.
  
• Preventative measures to stop future flea infestations.
  
• Integrated Pest Management techniques that minimize the need for harsh chemicals.
  

3. Bedbug Control

Bedbugs are one of the most difficult pests to eliminate, and their presence can cause significant distress. These nocturnal pests hide in cracks, seams, and furniture, making them hard to detect. Our bedbug control services involve a detailed inspection, targeted treatments, and follow-up visits to ensure your home or business is completely free of these resilient pests.

Our process includes:

• Thorough inspections to identify hidden bedbug infestations.
  
• Heat treatments or insecticide applications to eliminate bedbugs.
  
• Ongoing monitoring to ensure no resurgence.
  

4. Cockroach Control

Cockroaches are notorious for spreading diseases and triggering allergic reactions. Whether you’re dealing with German cockroaches, American cockroaches, or other species, we have the tools and knowledge to eliminate them effectively. We use IPM to reduce infestations and prevent future outbreaks.

Our approach includes:

• Targeting breeding areas and entry points.
  
• Using baits, traps, and insecticides to eliminate cockroach populations.
  
• Long-term prevention and exclusion strategies.
  

5. Rodent Control

Rats and mice pose serious health risks and can cause extensive damage to your property. Our rodent control services are designed to quickly address infestations and prevent future rodent problems. We use a combination of traps, baits, and exclusion techniques to safeguard your property.

Key services include:

• Inspection to identify entry points and nesting areas.
  
• Sealing cracks and holes to prevent rodent entry.
  
• Safe and humane trapping and removal methods.
  

6. Bird Control (Including Pigeon Control)

Birds can cause significant damage to properties, and pigeons are often the most problematic. Our bird control services are specifically designed to prevent birds from roosting, nesting, and causing damage. Whether it’s pigeons, seagulls, or other birds, we offer humane solutions like netting, spikes, and sound deterrents to keep them away from your property.

Our bird control services include:

• Custom exclusion plans based on your property’s needs.
  
• Installation of deterrents like spikes, nets, and sound devices.
  
• Long-term monitoring to prevent future infestations.
  

7. Wasp Control

Wasps are more than just an inconvenience; they can pose a serious risk to people with allergies. If wasps have made a nest on your property, our expert team can safely remove it and provide strategies to prevent future infestations. We offer targeted treatments to eliminate nests and discourage wasps from returning.

Our process includes:

• Safe removal of nests from areas near high-traffic zones.
  
• Preventive treatments to deter wasps from nesting again.
  
• Ongoing advice on how to keep wasps at bay.
  

8. Spider Control

Spiders, while beneficial for controlling other pests, can be unsettling to deal with, especially when venomous species like black widows or brown recluses make their home in your property. Our spider control services focus on eliminating spider populations while minimizing the risk of bites and infestations.

We use:

• Targeted sprays and traps to eliminate spiders and their webs.
  
• Exclusion measures to block entry points and reduce the risk of future spider invasions.
  
• Ongoing monitoring to ensure your property remains spider-free.
  

Comprehensive Pest Control: A Holistic Approach

Whether you’re dealing with pigeons, rodents, bedbugs, or any other pest, our team is here to help. At Fieldtech Integrated Pest Solutions, we utilize a combination of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles, humane methods, and advanced technology to ensure that your property remains free from pests year-round.

Our commitment to sustainability, safety, and effective pest management means that we’re always looking for the best, most environmentally responsible ways to protect your home or business.

Protect Your Property with Expert Pest Control Solutions

Dealing with pigeon infestations can be frustrating, but with the right knowledge and approach, you can protect your property effectively and humanely. By understanding what pigeons are afraid of, utilizing natural deterrents, and implementing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques, you can prevent pigeons from returning and keep your home or business safe. Remember, while smells and visual deterrents can provide some relief, a comprehensive strategy that combines exclusion, sanitation, and professional pest control services will ensure the long-term success of your pigeon control efforts.

At Fieldtech Integrated Pest Solutions, we offer a range of specialized pest control services, including pigeon control, rodent control, bedbug control, and much more, all tailored to fit your specific needs. We are committed to providing sustainable and humane solutions that protect your property without relying on harmful chemicals or unnecessary pesticide use.

Need Help with Pigeon Control or Other Pest Problems?

Don’t let pigeons—or any other pests—take over your property. Contact Fieldtech Integrated Pest Solutions today to schedule a consultation and discover how our expert team can help you regain control of your space. Whether you’re dealing with pigeons, ants, fleas, rodents, or other pests, we’re here to provide effective, eco-friendly solutions that last.

Call us at (800) 805-5758 or Click here to schedule and start your pest control journey today!