Are Hawks Enough To Control Pigeon Populations In Herts?

By Author: Jimmy M immy M. Cramer
Total Articles: 6
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Pigeons can be very problematic. They are dirty, disease-carrying birds and can be difficult to get rid of. Unfortunately, towns have provided an easy food supply which has caused an explosion in pigeon numbers. Their droppings are corrosive, causing damage to buildings and sculptures, and they are often plagued by mites and insects. It is no wonder that some councils are investing in inventive ways of controlling the pests.

It was reported in the Watford Observer recently that Three Rivers District Council in Hertfordshire have hired a Harris hawk to deter pigeons. There had been a large number of complaints about pigeons in the area, although this is not entirely surprising as Herts, London and the south east have more pigeons than anywhere else in the UK. It appears that the hawk’s handler John Hill will take him out on a number of occasions to scare the birds away.

Other councils across the country have come up with different solutions. Peregrine falcons living in a church tower in Bath regularly catch and kill pigeons, and Liverpool have Robop, a robotic bird of prey which sits on buildings as a deterrent. ...
... Culls have also been tried in some places, but as pigeon populations grow so rapidly, even this is not particularly effective.

Public education programmes are the most effective way to reduce pigeon numbers. If populations are to decrease, there needs to be less food available as the birds will breed less. Putting litter in bins and stopping people feeding the birds can be really useful. Until this happens, London and Herts will continue to have large numbers of pigeons, so what can be done in the mean time?

For most people, going out and buying a hawk or a robot is not an option, and killing the pigeons is distasteful. The best solution is to contact a pest control service and ask them to install pigeon proofing, such as spikes and netting. While this doesn’t get rid of the pigeons entirely, it keeps them away from a particular property, preventing damage and reducing the need to clean up droppings. Reputable companies will also clean and disinfect roosting sites to eliminate bacteria and parasites.

Terminex are a leading pest control service in London and Herts. They have a range of pigeon proofing solutions and will clean up at if the birds were never there. They also have a great deal of experience managing rats, moths and insects. Contact them today to get your pest problem sorted!

Terminex are a leading pest control service in London and Herts. They have a range of pigeon proofing solutions and will clean up at if the birds were never there. They also have a great deal of experience managing rats, moths and insects. Contact them today to get your pest problem sorted!

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