RSPCA reveals a method to stop pigeons from reaching bird feeders(Image: Getty Images)
Now with the warmer weather and the extra hours of sunlight, gardeners are making the most by taking extra care of their garden spaces. But there’s nothing that will ruin it faster than a pigeon invasion.
Spring has sprung, and plants are beginning to bloom, which means more birds will be roaming around to find food. A great way to attract and take care of the birds is by buying a bird feeder. Nonetheless, gardeners should know that feeding birds with nutritious suet, nuts and seeds is also likely to attract pigeons. But not everyone loves these types of birds, as per their reputation for sniping food in public areas.
Pigeons are also known for carrying diseases such as histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, ornithosis, and psittacosis – which can also be contracted by humans, risking falling ill.
There’s a method to stop pigeons from reaching bird feeders. According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), gardeners should look for feeders with narrow feeding holes ideal for smaller birds. Because of the tiny holes, pigeons will find it more difficult to get from.
Feeding birds with nutritious suet, nuts and seeds is also likely to attract pigeons – but there's a way to stop it(Image: Getty Images)
Another helpful method is using smaller seed mixes, as pigeons tend to prefer larger grains. It will also make it less likely for them to pay an unwanted visit to your garden. Move feeders away from perches or use feeders with slippery tops, which will make pigeons unable to perch.
Not only do humans enjoy the hot weather and clear skies, but birds like pigeons do, as well. For some people, pigeons are considered a problem when they come into towns and cities.
This is because of the mess they make and because pigeons usually use ledges on buildings to perch, roost and nest. Other people, specifically the elderly, enjoy feeding them, leading to large gatherings, often seen as a risk to public health and safety. By doing this simple method, gardeners can rest assured that the number of pigeons will decrease from a few visits to none. It will also ensure that the bird feeders remain accessible and safe for birds to consume.
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