When you think of household pests, ants, roaches, spiders, and mice may be the first ones that come to mind.
This time of year in particular, though, birds like New York pigeons can also be major nuisances to Suffolk County & Nassau County homeowners, causing damage to your property and potentially spreading diseases (such as salmonella) through their droppings.
While they cause issues, pigeons have been beneficial when domesticated โ such as when they were used to carry messages during wartime. In fact, 32 pigeons received medals (the Dickin Medal) for their service in World War II! Pigeons have also been bred for their unique colors and patterns for show.
Here are six other fun facts about pigeons that may surprise you, and what to do if you end up with a pigeon problem on your property.ย
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Pigeons Will Eat Almost Anything
Pigeons are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and meat. Typical meals for New York pigeons include grains, leafy greens, herbs, weeds, fruits like berries, and small insects, snails, and worms. Pigeons are also commonly known to scavenge meals from trash cans and dumpsters.
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Pigeons Prefer to Live Near Humans
Like a lot of other pest species, pigeons are often found near Suffolk County & Nassau County homes because they love living in close proximity to humans. Doing so ensures they have easy access to their basic needs to survive: food, water, and shelter.
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Pigeons Are Monogamous
When it comes to love, pigeons are monogamous with their partners for life, living together as a couple. There is an initial period of courtship, followed by building a nest and living out their lives together.
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Pigeons Were Likely the First Domesticated Bird
A species of pigeon called the rock pigeon was potentially the first bird ever domesticated, dating way back to a time before household parakeets and pigeons were the norm. The rock pigeon is featured in art dating back as far as 4500 BC. Itโs believed the pigeon was raised for meat and also utilized for its carrier abilities.
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Pigeons Are Skilled Navigationalistsย
Pigeons have a unique ability to find their way back to their nest from as far as 1,300 miles away! Even more impressive is that they are able to do so even if they were unable to see or hear where they were transported to and had no idea what direction theyโve moved in.
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Pigeons Have Expert Hearing
Pigeons are able to detect sounds at lower frequencies than humans, which is believed to contribute to their excellent navigation.
What to Do If You Have Pigeons
If you’re dealing with a pigeon problem on your Suffolk County & Nassau County property, here are some steps to take:
- Don’t feed them. Feeding pigeons will only attract more. Secure garbage cans and avoid leaving pet food outside.
- Close off openings. Block off or fill in any potential nesting areas like eaves, rafters, and ledges. Install deterrents like bird spikes or netting.
- Call in the experts: A qualified pest control company experienced with bird control, like Suburban Exterminating, has the tools and knowledge for effective, humane pigeon removal. They can help pigeon-proof your property to prevent re-infestation.
Protect Your Suffolk County & Nassau County Home from Pigeons
At Suburban Exterminating, we understand that as a homeowner, you probably donโt want to deal with an influx of them on your Suffolk County & Nassau County property. If youโre dealing with pigeons, calling in professional, humane pest control services from Suburban Exterminating is your best bet.ย
Our technicians will solve your pigeon problem through the use of humane measures and provide ongoing services to prevent future pigeon predicaments.
For help with your pigeon problem, call or text 516-864-6900. You can also fill out our contact form here.
