Are you also one of those people who are fed up with pigeons coming to your balconies and making them dirty?
Then, you must look for ways to keep them away but still be unable to find the best solution.
We know once they have settled on your balcony, they will turn it into a messy and disruptive one with all the dirt and their poop everywhere.
However, there is good news for you because you can reclaim your balcony space and say goodbye to the pigeons who only look cute from a distance.
This blog will explore why pigeons come on the balcony and how to get rid of pigeons on balcony. Let’s learn everything from physical deterrents to clever hacks that will help keep them away.
Why Pigeons Comes to Your Balcony?
Pigeons are cute creatures, but they tend to make your balconies dirty. But why are they attracted to it? It can be for several reasons, such as because they consider these spots as easy access to food and shelter.
Here are some of the reasons why they keep coming to your balcony.
- Balconies as a Safe Haven: Pigeons often view balconies as perfect spots for nesting and taking shelter. They want to feel safe from weather and predators, so they come to your balcony. It gives them a cozy spot that makes them feel at home and safe.
- Food and Shelter Attraction: Just like we need shelter and food, pigeons also look for the same. Many individuals often feed birds or leave food crumbs on their balconies, drawing them to the area. The food and cozy shelter make it an ideal spot for the pigeons.
- Safe Roosting Spot: As we know, pigeons find shelter in balconies often shaded by direct sunlight, which protects them from wind and rain. This makes it the best place for pigeons to rest or nest. It is because they feel secure from predators.
- Warmth and Comfort: Pigeons are also attracted to balconies for warmth and comfort, especially during winter. Some balconies even retain heat from the building, making them cozy spots for pigeons to rest.
- Easy Access and High Perches: Pigeons prefer high, open spaces where they can look out for threats, such as predators. The high point gives them a clear view of their surroundings while they rest.
What are the Problems Caused By Pigeons?
The pigeons find their way to your balcony for any of the reasons mentioned above. However, they also cause various problems.
Health Risks of Pigeon Droppings
Once pigeons settle in your house, you can expect their droppings on your balcony. These droppings also cause diseases like Histoplasmosis, which can pose health risks, especially if inhaled.
You can also hire a full-time maid if you want a deep cleaning of your balcony and have peace of mind that it is properly cleaned.
Damage to Property
Another problem caused by pigeons is that they can damage your property or furniture because their droppings are considered acidic.
Their droppings can stain surfaces, making your balcony look less appealing. If you leave them unchecked, be prepared for damaged furniture, railing, and even paint.
How to Stop Pigeons From Pooping on My Balcony?
Keeping pigeons away from your balcony may seem like a task, but keeping them away is essential as it will help prevent health risks and damage to your home. Let’s explore the preventive measures that will keep pigeons off the balcony.
Installing Physical Barriers
One of the best ways to stop pigeons on balcony from coming is to use physical barriers. Pigeon spikes are a good choice for air conditioners, where they usually occur because they offer easy access.
You can cover spaces on your balcony with mesh or screens, which will allow light and ventilation to enter but not the pigeons.
Chicken wire can also be used to block the areas where they are particularly drawn. They also won’t affect your balcony’s appearance.
Effective Use of Bird Spikes
Bird spikes are an excellent and durable solution to keeping pigeons away. They prevent them from coming because the spikes are not harmful but make it uncomfortable for them to sit or land in those areas.
They are very easy to install, and you can place these spikes along ledges, railings, and any flat surfaces.
Placing Netting on Balcony Openings
Using nets around the balcony has become popular nowadays because many want to ensure the pigeons don’t come to their balcony.
It creates a barrier that prevents them from entering the balcony and accessing their favourite area.
You can use netting, such as transparent, mesh, or any other material, and attach it securely around the edges of your balcony.
How to Keep Pigeons Off Balcony?
If you cannot keep the pigeons away using the physical barriers, you can consider using deterrents that will discourage them from coming, which will also not cause any harm to them.
Ultrasonic Devices
Ultrasonic devices produce high-frequency sounds that are inaudible to you but not to the pigeons, as these sounds bother them. You can place them anywhere on your balcony.
Some find these devices effective, although results vary based on your device and location. They also don’t require any physical installation.
Reflective Deterrent
Another effective type of deterrent is reflective deterrent. Their examples are shiny tape, mirrors, or aluminium foil. You can place them strategically to create flashing lights and shows, which the pigeon will find unsettling.
It will prevent them from coming to your balcony and causing various problems. You can hang the reflective tape by cutting them in strips along the railings. CDs or small mirrors can also be used to deter the pigeons.
Bird Repellent Gel
Pigeons come to your balcony in search of food and shelter. They settle there because they feel comfortable and warm in that particular area. So, you can make their nesting area unpleasant by using bird-repellent gel.
This gel will make them uncomfortable and not harm them because they are safe for birds. Apply the gel on railings, ledges, and other flat surfaces to ensure they don't come to your balcony.
Visual Deterrents
You know how the farmers keep scarecrows on their farms to scare away the birds? This technique can also be used on your home’s balcony, but instead of the scarecrow, you can use a plastic owl or hawk.
It will help trick pigeons into thinking there is a predator nearby. You can also use moving decoys, which are more effective.
What are the Scents that Repel Pigeons?
You can also use scents to repel pigeons because they find them unpleasant. With these scents, you can surely keep pigeons away from balcony.
Use these scents around your balcony and where pigeons tend to come frequently. Here are some effective scents that can repel them.
- Peppermint Oil: Peppermint oil has a strong scent that the pigeons dislike. It is a natural deterrent that you can use very quickly. Mix a few drops with water and spray on your balcony.
- Eucalyptus Oil: Eucalyptus oil is a popular choice for bird repellents. Pigeons will find its smell overwhelming and irritating. You can mix it with water and spray it on areas where pigeons are roosting.
- Citronella: It is used not only for repelling mosquitoes but also for pigeons and other birds. Its strong, citrusy aroma ensures the pigeons don’t return to your balcony. You can use its candles or spray oil around your balcony.
- Garlic: We know garlic has a very strong odour, but it is also helpful in getting rid of it. Crush a few garlic cloves and scatter them around your balcony, or use a mixture of garlic and water to spray the surfaces where pigeons land.
- Chilli Pepper: Chilli pepper is an ingredient found in any household. However, pigeons dislike it. You can create a spray using ground chilli pepper or cayenne pepper, water, and a little dish soap. Spray it on your balcony railings and ledges.
Cleaning Tips for Pigeons Mess
After you have gotten rid of the pigeons, it is essential to clean your balcony thoroughly. It can be tiring to clean their messy droppings, and for this purpose, you can always take the help of your domestic helper. Here are some cleaning tips for pigeon mess.
- Effective Cleaning Solutions: There must be droppings everywhere on your balcony, so use a mix of water and vinegar to clean them effectively. Scrub it thoroughly, especially when the droppings are all dry.
- Safety Measures During Cleanup: Wear gloves and a mask when cleaning your balcony. This will help you avoid direct contact with and inhale any harmful particles in the pigeon droppings.
- Dry Debris Removal: Wear gloves and remove large debris like nesting material or feathers. If there is any loose material, sweep it off the balcony. Use a scraper to scrape off hardened droppings or dampen them before removing them, which will make it easier to remove them.
- Disinfect the Surface: After cleaning your balcony thoroughly, disinfect the surfaces using mild disinfectant or a DIY solution of water and vinegar to kill any remaining germs. If you use a commercial disinfectant, follow the manufacturer's instructions before applying it to the material.
- Prevent Future Build-Up: To prevent the pigeons' future arrival, you should take some measures, such as regular cleaning, applying deterrents, and using a sealant.
DIY Solutions to Keep Pigeons Away
Commercial products, such as pigeon repellent gels and sprays, are often safe for pigeons and people. However, read and follow the instructions before using such products.
You can also consider using DIY cleaning tips and solutions to keep the pigeons away, and these solutions are as follows:
- Simple Household Hacks: You can use a line of fishing wire along railings, which will make it difficult for them to land on your balcony. The double-sided tape can also be used, as it creates an uncomfortable landing spot.
- Creating Homemade Repellents: It is the best DIY solution and alternative to commercial repellents. Mix water, vinegar, and a few drops of essential oil, and spray it on surfaces where pigeons usually settle.
How to Maintain a Pigeon-Free Balcony?
Maintaining a pigeon-free balcony is essential, especially after all the mess they created while they were on your balcony. Here are some tips for maintaining a pigeon-free balcony.
- Regularly inspect your balcony and look for the signs of their infestation, such as frequent presence, visible nests, their dropping, etc.
- Immediately cleaning any droppings or nests will help prevent pigeons from feeling at home.
- Keep your deterrents, such as spikes, decoys, or sound devices, in good condition so that they remain effective in keeping the pigeons away.
Conclusion
If you are also searching for “how to get rid of pigeons on balcony?”, this blog includes all the ways to ensure the pigeons don’t come to your balcony.
They usually come and settle on your balcony for food, warmth, or roosting, but their droppings cause various health risks and are also very hard to remove if they are dry.
You can use multiple deterrents, such as spikes, bird-repellent gel, ultrasonic devices, moving decoys, and many more.
You can also use scents, such as peppermint oil and garlic, to repel the pigeons. However, it is essential to ensure your balcony stays clean.
If you find cleaning your balcony challenging after the mess pigeons have created, you can consider hiring the best maid service in Noida and Delhi at NinjaCare. They will clean your balcony effectively and use the best solutions to keep the pigeons away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1 What smells do pigeons hate?
Ans Pigeons hates smells that have strong scents like cinnamon, peppermint, and cayenne pepper. These scents are often used as natural repellents.
Q2 Are pigeon deterrents safe for pets?
Ans Yes, most pigeon detergents are safe for pets, especially sound-based and visual ones. However, ensure not to use toxic substances.
Q3 How often should I clean pigeon droppings?
Ans You should clean pigeon dropping when you spot them to prevent their buildup and maintain hygiene.
Q4 Can pigeons damage balcony furniture?
Ans Yes, pigeon droppings can damage balcony furniture because they are acidic and can stain or corrode furniture over time. That is why regular cleaning is necessary.
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