Feral pigeons are a persistent pest in Brisbane due to their strong homing instinct, corrosive droppings, and rapid breeding cycle. Without targeted removal and exclusion, they repeatedly return to the same location.
Feral Pigeons The Pests With a Homing Instinct
Why Are Feral Pigeons a Problem?
1. Health Hazards from Pigeon Droppings
- Pigeon faeces transmit serious diseases:
- Salmonellosis
- Psittacosis
- Pseudo-tuberculosis
- Droppings contaminate surfaces and air conditioning systems.
2. Property Damage and Flood Risk
- Droppings are acidic and corrode roofing materials.
- Feathers, eggs and nesting debris clog gutters and drains, increasing flood risks during storms.
- Pigeons roost in:
- Cracked roof tiles
- Gaps in roof seals
- Window ledges and under overhangs
- Water tanks and HVAC units
Why Is It Hard to Remove Feral Pigeons Permanently?
| Pigeon Trait | Impact on Removal |
| Homing instinct | Pigeons return to their birthplace after removal |
| Year-round breeding | Breeding pairs produce multiple clutches annually |
| Free-flying mobility | They relocate quickly if nearby food or shelter exists |
- Relocation is ineffective; pigeons almost always fly back.
- Long-term control requires habitat modification and breeding disruption.
Effective Pigeon Removal and Bird Proofing Methods
1. Bird-Proofing the Property
- Seal access points:
- Broken tiles
- Fascia gaps
- Roof cavities
- Make roosting sites uncomfortable using:
- Bird spikes
- Angled surfaces
- Wire deterrents
2. Population Control
- Legal methods include:
- Trapping
- Targeted shooting
- Humane deterrents
- Goal: Stop pigeons from nesting and returning.
When to Install Bird Netting
Professional-grade bird netting is ideal for:
- Shopping centres
- Commercial overhangs
- Warehouse rafters
- High roofs or exposed façades
We use high-tensile netting supported by steel cables to fully exclude birds without harming them.
Why Professional Pigeon Control Is Necessary
- Pigeons breed faster than most DIY solutions can control.
- Only trained professionals:
- Understand bird pressure levels (low, medium, high)
- Can install deterrents in hard-to-reach or elevated locations
- Ensure legal and effective removal for long-term results
Action Steps for Homeowners
- Don’t feed pigeons—this encourages site fidelity.
- Inspect your roof and gutters for entry points and waste buildup.
- Contact a pest control expert for inspection, bird proofing, and safe pigeon removal.
Tired of pigeons nesting on your roof or fouling up your property? Feral pigeons don’t just move on—they come back, breed rapidly, and cause serious health and structural issues. At Peter the Possum & Bird Man, we specialize in long-term pigeon control across Brisbane using humane, legal, and highly effective bird-proofing solutions. Contact us today for a professional inspection and tailored removal plan that keeps pigeons away for good.
