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 Long Island homeowners, causing damage to your property and potentially spreading diseases through their droppings.
Here are 6 fun facts about pigeons that may surprise you, and what to do if you end up with a pigeon problem on your property.
Pigeon Fact #1: 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.
Pigeon Fact #2: Pigeons Prefer to Live Near Humans 
Like a lot of other pest species, pigeons are often found near Long Island 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.
Pigeon Fact #3: 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.
Pigeon Fact #4: 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. It’s believed the pigeon was raised for meat and also utilized for its carrier abilities.
Pigeon Fact #5: Pigeons Are Skilled Navigationalists
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 they’ve moved in.
Pigeon Fact #6: Pigeons Have Expert Hearing
Pigeons are able to detect sounds at lower frequencies than humans, which is believed to contribute to their excellent navigation.
Protect Your Long Island Home from Pigeons
At Suburban Exterminating, we understand that as a homeowner, you probably don’t want to deal with an influx of them on your Long Island property. If you’re dealing with pigeons, calling in professional, humane pest control services from Suburban Exterminating is your best bet. 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 (631/516) 864-6900.
