Pigeon Problems on the Roof

Pigeon Biology

• Pigeons have long been domesticated by humans to carry messages for long distances, and could easily be kept in rooftop aviaries. Now, these birds can commonly be found sharing rooftops with their human companions whether they are wanted or not. In their native environment, pigeons will nest on high, rocky outcroppings or ledges; this translates well to rooftops and eaves when the pigeons find themselves nesting in the urban world. The pigeon's diet may also encourage them to think that your roof is a prime spot to build a nest; pigeons will feed on seeds and vegetables like many birds, but will also forage through the garbage to find a feast of human leftovers.

Health Hazards

• Pigeons are extremely messy birds, and when they nest on the roof they can cover the roof and the areas around the house with their droppings. Most of the concern related to these droppings is the mess and the unsightly appearance that comes with them. While there are some health hazards associated with exposure to pigeon droppings, those most at risk are individuals with a compromised immune system. Even then, exposure must typically be high in order for the individual to contract any infections. Cryptococcosis and histoplasmosis are fungal infections that can be contained within the droppings, and generally require more of an exposure than droppings from roof-dwelling pigeons can bring. Psittacosis is caused by a bacteria present in the droppings, but this condition is extremely rare.

Removal and Prevention

• The best way to get rid of pigeons on the roof is by discouraging them from nesting there. Remove any nests and nesting materials. Cover all garbage cans and other food sources; put netting over freshly seeded grasses and flower beds. Modify the areas where they are nesting to discourage them -- pigeon spikes can be effective when they are nesting on eaves or ledges around the roof; the spikes will make it impossible for them to build nests, but won't hurt the birds. Flat roofs can be highly desirable nesting spots, but simply installing a slanted surface will discourage them. Stationary objects such as scarecrows will have little effect on pigeons, as they will quickly become accustomed to the presence of something meant to scare them. However, balloons and streamers tied to the roof may frighten them long enough that they will go elsewhere.

Safe Cleanup

• When cleaning up nesting materials and droppings, be sure to take precautions. Wear gloves and protective clothing such as long pants and a long-sleeved shirt. If the roof and the area around the home is significantly soiled, wet the area with a hose before scraping off the droppings; this will prevent the inhalation of the dust when scraping off the dried droppings. Alternately, a wet-dry vacuum cleaner may be used to vacuum some of the nesting materials and lose droppings before scraping the remainder loose.