Skip to content

How to Keep Pigeons off Your Roof

Many people love to see pigeons and consider them welcome wildlife, but pigeons are a pest to others.

You may suffer from excess bird droppings on your vehicles or outdoor space. You may even have a problem where pigeons put off customers and ruin your business

As well as causing potential harm to public health, pigeons can also cause damage to roof tiles, solar panels and brickwork.

If pigeons have become a nuisance, you will want to know how to keep them off your roof. This post will share some ideas from our pest control technicians about pigeon-proofing your roof and property.

Methods of Keeping Pigeons off Your Roof

Here are some ideas that might make your roof unappealing to pigeons and keep them away. 

If you are suffering a significant infestation or have no luck keeping pigeons off your roof, it might be best to call one of our trained technicians to help you solve the problem.

Pigeon Scarers

Don’t worry: these are not harmful to pigeons. They are lightweight bird of prey silhouettes that you can place in spots where pigeons like to roost.

The RSPB advises that they should initially scare away pigeons from the places you install them but be aware that after a while, pigeons will get used to them and then may return.

Reflective Materials

When sunlight hits a reflective material, it creates a bright prism-like shine that negatively affects pigeons’ eyesight.

You can purchase reflective tape, discs or windmills at a low cost that will discourage pigeons from settling. You place the products on areas attractive to pigeons, such as guttering, ledges and eaves.

You can even keep pigeons away by using old CDs. They are a perfect, no-cost solution that you can use by suspending them close to your target areas.

Sloped Metal Sheathing

Pigeons are attracted to flat surfaces and will choose ledges for roosting. You can cover these attractive flat surfaces with a sloping sheet of metal.

If pigeons can’t roost, they will hopefully find somewhere else to land.

Natural Repellants

You must understand that birds, like much wildlife, are protected under UK Law and cannot be poisoned or have their nests disturbed. 

Fortunately, some natural ingredients can be used to discourage pigeons from your roof.

You can place a ball or container with fragrant spices such as chilli powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper or cinnamon on your roof. The scent may help to keep pigeons away from the area.

Bird Netting and Mesh

You can buy netting that can be installed to seal off openings in your roof that could make an ideal roosting spot for pigeons.Getting the correct tension is crucial to avoid harming any birds. You may want assistance from a registered pest controller to ensure the work is carried out effectively and safely.

Pigeon Spikes

Pigeon spikes are metal spikes that can be installed across your roof or on top of fence panels to discourage pigeons from roosting.

They do not cause harm but should be uncomfortable for pigeon landings and help keep them away.

What else can you do to discourage pigeons from your roof?

  • Inspect your property for places that attract pigeons. Pigeons are drawn to chimneys, ledges, vents, gutters, gaps and solar panels.
  • Once you have identified potential pigeon roosting spots, you can use a deterrent to discourage them from staying.
  • Pigeons, like most pests, are attracted by food. Ensure that your rubbish is in a lidded bin and that bags are secured tightly.
  • Keep your outside space tidy and clean.
  • Feeding the birds is a lovely thing to do, but bird food will attract pigeons. Choose feeders that prevent larger birds from accessing the food. Squirrel-proof feeders may work.
  • Bird tables will attract pigeons, so avoid them where possible.
  • Many people also leave out food for hedgehogs and other wildlife. Remember that any food left outside may also attract pigeons (and rats!).

Do I need a pest controller to keep pigeons off my roof?

A small pigeon problem can quickly become a more significant issue if not addressed effectively.

It is worth trying out some ideas yourself to see if you can eliminate the problem of pigeons roosting on your roof, but if this fails, it may be best to contact professionals.

At EWS Group, we specialise in fauna management, as we have the experience and knowledge required to solve problems with wildlife effectively and protect them within the law.

You should not underestimate the damage that can be caused to your property or premises if pigeons are allowed to roost on your roof. The cost of repairs or loss of business can far outweigh any cost of pest control.

If you are worried about pigeons on your roof, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at EWS Group to see how our trained pest control technicians can help you.