With modern technology, the value of pigeons in today’s world has fallen from unsuspecting messengers to pests.
If there’s a pigeon nest on your balcony or on a tree branch that your bedroom window opens to, there’s no need to panic.
There’s a simple and safe way to remove it. However, when it comes to the eggs in the nest, you need to exercise caution. First, assess their incubation period, and then you can dispose of them.
This can lead to unpleasant situations for homeowners, and many people begin to wonder how to safely remove these pigeon eggs from their balconies.
We’ve researched the topic and found some tried and tested methods that can help you in this endeavor.
When dealing with pigeon eggs on your balcony, it’s important to consider both the safety and wellness of the birds, as well as maintaining a clean and comfortable living space for yourself.
Balconies can offer an inviting environment for pigeons, but by following a few simple steps, we can gently dissuade them from nesting on our property.
In this article, we’ll guide you on “HOW TO GET RID OF PIGEON EGGS ON BALCONY”. We’ll provide steps on safely removing pigeon eggs and share preventative measures to ensure pigeons won’t return to your balcony in the future.
By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge needed to handle these situations efficiently and responsibly.
Understanding Pigeon Behavior
Pigeons are fascinating birds and understanding their behavior can help us deal with them efficiently and safely, especially when it comes to removing their eggs from our balconies.
First, let us acknowledge that pigeons are sociable creatures. They often live in flocks and can be found in large numbers in urban areas.
These birds have a strong affinity towards human structures, making balconies an attractive nesting or roosting site.
Breeding is a significant aspect of a pigeon’s life. They breed all year round, with peak breeding activity during the spring and summer months.
Being monogamous, a pair will raise several broods together every year. Pigeons generally lay two eggs, and both parents share the responsibility of incubating them for 17 to 19 days.
Once the eggs hatch, the chicks, called squabs, are fed by the parents until they can fly and fend for themselves.
Pigeons, both domesticated and wild, are adaptable and resourceful when it comes to finding food and water.
They primarily feed on seeds, grains, and fruits, but they are not picky eaters; they will scavenge and consume whatever food is available in the environment.
In cities, they often consume human food scraps, which can contribute to an increase in their population.
When dealing with pigeons nesting on our balconies, it is crucial to understand why they have chosen this particular location.
Access to food and water can be significant factors in their decision to nest nearby.
Balconies also offer protection from predators and the elements, providing a safe haven as they raise their chicks.
Pigeon Attraction to Balconies
Pigeons are attracted to balconies primarily because they offer an ideal environment for resting, nesting, and feeding.
In urban areas, tall buildings provide a safe haven for these birds, as they resemble the natural cliff dwellings pigeons prefer in the wild.
Let’s take a closer look at the factors that make balconies an appealing home for pigeons.
Firstly, balconies offer shelter from the elements, including rain and wind, ensuring their nests are protected year-round.
Balcony railings and ledges provide pigeons with multiple perching spots and support for their nests. Additionally, overhangs and potted plants can sometimes offer additional shade and a sense of security for these birds.
Another key factor in pigeon attraction to balconies is the availability of food.
We may unintentionally leave food scraps or accessible pet food on our balconies, which can attract pigeons and encourage them to stay.
Additionally, even if we aren’t directly providing food, pigeons may scavenge for food in nearby trash cans or from neighboring balconies.
Balconies are more than just a place to rest and nest for pigeons; they often serve as feeding grounds and social hubs for these birds.
Pigeons are known to be highly social creatures, and balcony railings can become a gathering spot for them to interact with their flock.
We should consider addressing these attractants if we want to safely and effectively manage the presence of pigeons on our balconies.
By eliminating food sources, minimizing shelter opportunities, and discouraging perching on balcony railings, we can begin to create an environment that is less attractive to pigeons, while maintaining the enjoyment and beauty of our outdoor spaces.
Health Risks Associated with Pigeon Nests
Pigeon nests on balconies can pose several health risks to humans.
In this section, we will discuss some of the diseases and health concerns linked to these nests, including histoplasmosis, psittacosis, cryptococcosis, parasites, bacteria, and the presence of ticks.
Histoplasmosis is a fungal infection that can spread to humans through contact with bird droppings, particularly in warm and humid environments.
When we inhale airborne spores released from these droppings, they can affect our immune systems and even lead to the development of chronic lung disease in severe cases.
Psittacosis, also known as parrot fever, is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted from birds to humans.
Although it is more commonly linked to parrots, pigeons can also carry this disease. Symptoms in humans include headache, fever, and respiratory issues.
Antibiotics are often used to treat psittacosis, but if left untreated, it can lead to serious complications.
Cryptococcosis is another fungal infection that can spread from pigeon nests to humans. It is primarily associated with pigeon droppings, as the fungus can survive and thrive in this environment.
Inhalation of fungal spores can lead to lung infections or, in severe cases, spread to other parts of the body, including the central nervous system.
Parasites, such as bird mites, can also be found in pigeon nests. These mites do not only affect birds but can also bite humans, causing itchiness and skin irritation.
While they do not transmit diseases, their presence can be uncomfortable and lead to skin infections if not addressed.
Bacteria can build up in pigeon droppings, especially when they accumulate and decompose. This creates a breeding ground for various pathogens, potentially posing risks to our immune systems if we come into contact with these bacteria.
Regular cleaning and maintenance of the affected area are vital to preventing health issues.
Ticks are parasites that can hitch a ride on pigeons and be brought into our living spaces. Ticks can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
Though these diseases are typically associated with ticks from other sources, it is still crucial to be mindful of the presence of ticks in pigeon nests and take proper precautions when handling these nests.
In conclusion, it is essential to remove pigeon nests safely and take precautions to minimize the health risks they can pose.
Regular cleaning of the affected areas, proper hand hygiene, and the use of protective equipment can help mitigate the potential hazards associated with pigeon nests on balconies.
Pigeon Nest
Pigeons like to nest in any area that provides shelter. They mostly flock to places where there are water, food, and crevices.
Indoors, you will find pigeons in stairwells, parking garages, and warehouses.
They like to stay close to large open doors. Pigeons also love ledges, which is why you find them on tree branches.
The good news is that you can remove a pigeon’s nest in a matter of minutes. However, this will not solve your problems.
The pigeons will simply return to the spot, build a nest, and lay new eggs. Think of them as true squatters who will not leave your house willingly!
A Little History of Pigeons
For hundreds of decades, pigeons and humans have coexisted in harmony. Owners of these birds constructed dovecotes to house pigeons.
In fact, they were so valuable that guards were placed outside their cages to protect them.
They were also an excellent food source, and pigeon guano (droppings) was a sought-after fertilizer.
After a few years, a priceless discovery put them under the limelight: Pigeon guano contained potassium nitrate, which was used to manufacture gunpowder.
The ancient dovecotes that were once revered are now in despair. However, we cannot downplay the historical value of these birds.
In the Roman ages, in ancient Greece, and during wartime, pigeons were reliable messengers. Their use continued into the Middle Ages, World War I, and World War II.
Here’s a fun fact: 32 pigeons were given medals for their service during World War II.
The army would dispatch them to carry important messages to the troops. They were even released from airplanes to assist troops with attack plans.
Once the message was delivered, they would fly back to a communications center.
The war pigeon GI Joe saved a village in Italy from being destroyed and saved the lives of more than 1,000 British soldiers.
Why You Need to Get Rid of Pigeons
Are Pigeons Dangerous?
Pigeons carry various diseases that can be dangerous to humans. They don’t make for good house pets because of the mess they create.
The three primary diseases that are caused by guano include Psittacosis, Histoplasmosis, and Cryptococcosis.
Psittacosis
Also known as Parrot Fever or Ornithosis, this disease is an infection caused by the fungus in guano.
If the nest is close to a spot, you frequently visit, you inhale the fungus spores, which can lead to symptoms such as pneumonia, dry cough, headache, and fever.
Histoplasmosis
This is also an infection that you get after inhaling the fungus spores.
Histoplasmosis compromises your lungs and causes extreme tiredness, headaches, body aches, chest pain, and cough.
Cryptococcosis
This disease also affects the lungs and is caused by yeast in guano. Its symptoms are similar to meningitis and are primarily seen in weak people.
Cryptococcosis causes shortness of breath and chest pain.
Apart from the mess and diseases, what other reasons are there to remove a pigeon nest? Well, if they are in your office building, they can be a huge nuisance. Pigeons will jeopardize your business’s cleanliness and harass customers.
You can call animal control but remember that they won’t use exercise safety while removing them.
Removing a Pigeon Nest
Be Patient
The truth is pigeons don’t like to be disturbed. If there’s a nest on your balcony with babies that have hatched, there’s nothing you can do.
Here’s why: If you move the nest even an inch, the pigeons will abandon their babies.
In fact, they will come to the same spot, make another nest for their new babies, and leave the old ones alone, starving and dehydrated.
So, it’s better to wait and let them grow, which will take about four weeks. Once they learn how to fly, you can dispose of the nest.
When and How Can I Remove the Pigeon Nest?
As we said, pigeons don’t like any disturbances in their lives. Baby pigeons cannot survive without their parents. It’s the parents who keep them warm and fed.
They teach them how to integrate with other pigeons and escape predators.
To remove the nest, you need to keep an eye on it. Let’s say the eggs have hatched, and you see the pigeons in the nest. This is not the right time to remove them.
Wait for a month and start watching the nest again. If it’s empty, this is the time to take action.
Wear gloves and a mask. Pick up the nest and wrap it in a garbage bag. Knot it tightly and throw it outside in the bin.
If the pigeons recently laid eggs and you know it’s the first incubation week, you can still dispose of them.
Pick up the eggs and bury them in the pushes. You can then dispose of the nest and clean the area to prevent pigeons from creating a nest again.
Pigeons are active the most in spring. You will find them flying around from March to April, looking for a secluded yet open space to create a nest.
If you see continuous movement, back and forth, in just one area, it means the pigeons are hunting for the right pine needles and twigs to build a strong nest.
Now that you know how to remove pigeon eggs from your balcony, let’s talk about preventing pigeons from considering your home theirs:
Getting Rid of Pigeons
The first thing you need to do is clean the guano on your balcony. The longer it stays out there, the faster its bacteria will enter your home through the window.
Cleaning Poop
It’s important to clean guano immediately because the bacteria in it are acidic and corrode metal surfaces. Wear a dust mask, goggles, and rubber gloves to clean the guano.
Scrape the dried poop and throw it in a plastic bag. Wash the surface with soapy, hot water and then spray it with a disinfectant.
Since guano is toxic, make sure you are disposing of it safely. Change your clothes and throw them in the washing machine after cleaning.
Repellants
Applying gel repellants on surfaces where pigeons usually perch can help you eliminate these birds in a couple of hours.
The sticky texture of the repellant will repel the pigeons and keep them away for good. Because of debris and dust, you should reapply the repellant twice daily.
Do not apply it to areas where smaller birds perch or they will get stuck in it.
Wires
A stainless-steel wire or wire coil can deter pigeons from perching on your balcony railing.
Netting
A netting system will physically stop the pigeons from entering your balcony.
This solution is costly. However, if installed by a professional, netting is 100% effective.
Nowadays, you will find nettings that are almost transparent, so you don’t have to worry about damaging your home’s exterior aesthetic appeal.
Shock Track
We know what you are thinking: Won’t a shock track cause pigeons’ pain?
This device provides a small amount of stimulation that just makes your balcony unattractive. It won’t harm the pigeons and will stop them from coming near your house.
Reflect Light or Sound
Using sound or light is an easy way to make it difficult for the pigeons to enter your balcony.
You can use wind chimes for sound and aluminum foil or a Mylar balloon for reflection. You can even create DIY CD hangings and decorate your balcony with them.
Spikes
Anti-perching spikes are great at preventing pigeons and all other birds from perching on your balcony railing.
You can get these spikes in stainless steel and arrange them, so they don’t ruin your balcony’s aesthetic appearance.
Rubber Snake or Plastic Owl
Pigeons are terrified of snakes and owls because they are their natural predators.
You can use a fake snake or owl as a scare tactic. However, this won’t work for long if the pigeons recognize they are just toys and not a threat.
Why You Should Remove Pigeon Eggs
There are a few important reasons for removing pigeon eggs from your balcony. First and foremost, it is a matter of hygiene and cleanliness.
Pigeon droppings can be a significant health hazard, as they contain bacteria, fungi, and parasites that can cause diseases in humans.
By removing the eggs, you can prevent pigeons from establishing a nest on your balcony, which in turn helps to keep your outdoor space cleaner and free of droppings.
Another reason to remove the eggs is to control the pigeon population. Pigeons reproduce quickly, and their numbers can quickly grow out of control.
This can lead to an increased amount of mess and noise on your balcony, as well as potential damage to the structure.
By removing the eggs, you can help curb the growth of the pigeon population and minimize any problems associated with an excessive number of birds.
In addition, removing pigeon eggs can help prevent their nests from becoming a source of food and water for other pests. Pigeon nests can attract insects and rodents, which can also cause damage and create unsanitary conditions for your home.
By removing the eggs and preventing pigeons from nesting, you can reduce the chances of attracting other unwanted pests.
Lastly, removing pigeon eggs can help maintain the aesthetic value of your property.
Pigeon nests, especially when combined with their droppings, can be unsightly and detract from the overall appearance of your home.
Ensuring that your balcony remains clean and free of pigeon nests and eggs can help maintain the beauty of your space.
To summarize, removing pigeon eggs from your balcony is an important step in maintaining cleanliness, controlling the pigeon population, preventing the attraction of other pests, and preserving the aesthetic value of your property.
By taking action to remove the eggs, you can create a safer, more enjoyable outdoor space for yourself and your family.
Preventing Pigeon Nesting and Roosting
To effectively deter pigeons from nesting and roosting on our balconies, we can implement a variety of methods. One common solution is to install bird netting.
It effectively creates a barrier, preventing pigeons from accessing the area. Netting is generally discreet and won’t obstruct the view from our balcony.
Another useful option is to place bird spikes along the edges of balconies and rooftops.
Pigeons will be discouraged from landing and nesting in these areas due to the discomfort caused by the spikes. It’s crucial to ensure proper installation for maximum effectiveness.
We can also utilize reflective tape or old CDs to scare away pigeons. The reflective surfaces create flashes of light when hit by sunlight, which disorients and startles the birds.
Hang strips of reflective tape or CDs in strategic spots to deter pigeons from settling down.
To keep pigeons off our roof and discourage nesting, regular maintenance is essential. We should clean our gutters and remove any debris to eliminate potential nesting spots.
Trimming nearby trees can also minimize perching opportunities for pigeons.
For those looking for DIY methods, a homemade solution of water, chili pepper, and dish soap can be sprayed on surfaces we want to keep pigeon-free. Reapply the mixture regularly, especially after rain or heavy winds.
As a long-term solution, we should make our buildings and balconies less attractive to pigeons. We can do this by sealing off any cracks or holes where they might nest.
Also, ensure no food or pet food is left accessible to pigeons, as this will only encourage them to return.
By employing these measures, we can effectively prevent pigeons from nesting and roosting on our balconies and rooftops, ensuring a clean and pigeon-free environment.
Identifying Pigeon Nests
When it comes to dealing with pigeons and their nests, we want to ensure that it’s done safely and without causing harm to the birds.
The first step in this process is learning how to identify pigeon nests. Pigeon nests are typically built with twigs and leaves, and they can also include urban debris such as paper, plastic, and other materials.
Pigeons prefer to nest in sheltered areas such as balconies, under eaves, or on window ledges where they’re protected from predators and harsh weather conditions. This is where they will roost and incubate their eggs.
We can recognize a pigeon nest by its relatively crude and simple construction. Even though these nests might seem haphazardly built, pigeons are quite able to incubate and raise their offspring successfully.
A typical pigeon nest will have one or two eggs at a time, which are white and oval-shaped.
This set of eggs is known as a clutch, and pigeons usually lay a new clutch every month or two during the breeding season.
It’s important to mention that pigeons are highly adaptable, which is why they’re so prevalent in urban environments.
They do not always build their nests in trees like other birds; instead, they often seek out sheltered ledges or crevices in buildings to lay their eggs.
As we come across these pigeon nests, it’s crucial to approach the situation with care, keeping in mind the importance of safe and responsible nest removal.
By taking the time to learn about the characteristics of pigeon nests, we can not only identify them quickly but also take the necessary steps to remove these nests safely from our balconies or other unwanted nesting locations.
This helps protect both our living spaces and the pigeons themselves from any potential harm.
Procedures to Safely Remove Pigeon Eggs
We understand the concerns about having pigeon eggs on your balcony, and it’s crucial to address the situation safely and humanely.
Before taking any action, we should observe the situation and ensure we’re not hurting the birds or their eggs.
First, let’s wait for both pigeons to leave the nest. Since pigeons are creatures of habit, they will likely leave their nests to search for food.
This is an opportune moment to remove the eggs without disturbing the birds. Gently reach under the sitting pigeon to remove the eggs, and quickly replace the real eggs with warmed, wooden eggs to prevent the pigeon from noticing the switch.
If you decide to remove the nest entirely, it is critical to understand that pigeons may build a new nest and lay new eggs in a short period.
Be cautious not to drastically deplete the hen’s calcium resources, as constant egg removal can be detrimental to its health.
In order to prevent pigeons from nesting on your balcony in the future, consider installing bird spikes or bird netting.
These barriers can deter nesting without causing harm to the pigeons. Additionally, be sure to keep your balcony clean and free from food debris that may attract the birds.
As responsible individuals, it’s essential to be cautious and considerate when removing pigeon eggs from our balconies.
By following the procedures mentioned above, we can safely and humanely address the situation without causing harm to these creatures.
Cleaning and Decontamination After Removal
Once the pigeon eggs have been safely removed from the balcony, it’s important for us to thoroughly clean and decontaminate the area.
This will not only prevent any lingering odors but also help in eliminating any potential health risks associated with pigeon droppings.
To start, we’ll want to gather the necessary cleaning supplies, such as disposable gloves, a mask, garbage bags, a stiff-bristle brush, and a cleaning solution.
Remember to wear gloves and a mask during the entire cleaning process to protect yourself from any possible contaminants present in the droppings.
Next, we’ll carefully collect all visible droppings, nesting materials, feathers, and debris, and place them in the garbage bags.
It’s crucial to do this step first, as it makes the rest of the cleaning process more efficient. Once all the solid waste has been removed, we can then dispose of the garbage bags according to local regulations.
With the area now free of any solid debris, we’ll move on to cleaning the surface. We can use a mixture of hot water and detergent or a cleaning solution specifically designed for removing pigeon droppings.
Using the stiff-bristle brush, we’ll scrub the entire surface thoroughly, giving special attention to any spots that are heavily stained or affected by droppings or feathers.
After scrubbing the surface, we should rinse it thoroughly with clean water to remove any residue from the cleaning solution.
This step is critical, as leftover cleaning agents can be harmful to both people and any future bird visitors to the balcony.
For an added layer of protection, we can also apply a disinfectant to the area to kill any bacteria that might still be present.
Keep in mind that the disinfectant should be safe for use in outdoor spaces and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the appropriate dilution and application methods.
By following these steps, we can ensure a clean and safe environment for ourselves and any future avian guests.
Remember, regular maintenance and cleaning will help prevent future issues with pigeon nesting and keep our balcony an enjoyable space for all to enjoy.
Professional Pest Control for Pigeons
In our experience, the most effective method for dealing with pigeons on your balcony is to work with professional pest control services.
These professionals have the necessary knowledge, tools, and techniques to resolve your pigeon situation safely and humanely.
One of the most common control methods employed by pest control experts is the use of bird netting. This is a simple yet effective way to prevent pigeons from accessing your balcony.
By installing strong and durable nets around the perimeter, we can create a barrier that pigeons are unable to penetrate.
Not only will this prevent them from creating nests and laying eggs, but it will also deter them from returning in the future.
Alongside bird netting, professionals may also implement other control methods, such as spikes, electronic repellents, and visual deterrents.
These solutions work in tandem with netting, ensuring a comprehensive approach that addresses the problem from multiple angles.
With our expert guidance, you can rest assured that your balcony will be pigeon-free in no time.
To ensure the best results, we recommend contacting a reputable pest control company to assess your individual circumstances and recommend a tailored solution.
By entrusting this task to the experts, you can avoid potential health risks, property damage, and unnecessary stress. Moreover, you can continue to enjoy your balcony without fear of unwelcome visitors.
In conclusion, when faced with a pigeon infestation on your balcony, it is essential to act quickly and seek the assistance of professional pest control services.
By employing a comprehensive approach that includes bird netting and other control methods, we can effectively remove pigeons from your property and help you reclaim your outdoor living space.
Final Thoughts
To recap, you should not remove a pigeon nest if the eggs have completed their three weeks in the incubation period and after they have hatched.
Doing so could be a matter of life or death. Pigeons will abandon their nest if they see it has been moved.
A moved nest will cause the pigeons to leave the babies starving, and they could die.
So, if you are annoyed by the guano on your balcony and want to dispose of the nest, we suggest you wait and watch for the right opportunity.
Once the babies grow and fly out, you can take action.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are safe ways to remove pigeon eggs from a balcony?
We suggest wearing gloves while carefully lifting the eggs from the nest and placing them in a cushioned container to protect them from breakage.
Afterward, the nest should be removed and the area thoroughly cleaned. It is important to discourage pigeons from returning by removing any nesting materials or food sources that may attract them.
How can I relocate a pigeon nest with eggs from my balcony?
Relocating a pigeon nest should be done with care to ensure the safety of the eggs.
You can place the entire nest within a safe container, such as a well-ventilated box, and relocate it to a similar location away from your balcony. Make sure it is well protected from rain, sunlight, and predators.
What precautions should be taken when handling pigeon eggs?
When handling pigeon eggs, you should wear gloves to protect yourself from potential diseases that pigeons may carry.
Be gentle with the eggs to avoid causing any damage, and make sure to wash your hands thoroughly after handling them.
Are there any legal issues in removing pigeon nests with eggs?
Laws regarding the removal of pigeon nests with eggs vary depending on your location. It is crucial to check with local authorities for guidelines and regulations before proceeding with nest removal.
How can I prevent pigeons from laying eggs on my balcony in the future?
To prevent pigeons from laying eggs on your balcony, you can take several steps such as installing bird deterrents like spikes or netting around your balcony, cleaning the area frequently to remove any potential food sources, and removing any nesting materials as soon as they are spotted.
What is the life cycle of baby pigeons and when can they be safely moved?
Baby pigeons, or squabs, generally hatch after 17 to 19 days of incubation. They will remain in the nest for approximately 4 to 6 weeks until they are self-sufficient enough to leave.
It is best to wait until the squabs have left the nest before attempting to remove or relocate it to ensure their safety and well-being.
What does it mean if a pigeon lays eggs on your balcony?
If a pigeon lays eggs on your balcony, it signifies that the pigeon perceives your balcony as a secure and sheltered place to nest and raise its offspring.
The balcony likely offers protection from predators and the elements, making it an ideal spot for the bird. In urban environments, pigeons often adapt to human structures, using spots like balconies as alternatives to their natural nesting sites, such as cliffs or ledges. Some cultures also view birds nesting nearby as a sign of good luck or a positive omen.
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