How do you get rid of pigeons?

Pigeons might seem harmless at first, but once they’ve settled on your roof, balcony, or solar panels, they become a nonstop nuisance. Between the mess, the noise, and the risk of property damage or disease, getting rid of them fast—and for good—becomes a top priority for homeowners and businesses alike.

What Smells Do Pigeons Hate?

Pigeons have a decent sense of smell and tend to avoid strong, irritating scents like peppermint oil, vinegar, chili powder, and citronella. These odors can disrupt their nesting instincts and make roosting spots feel unsafe or uncomfortable, especially when applied around ledges, windowsills, or AC units.

That said, smells alone won’t send pigeons packing for good. They may avoid an area temporarily, but unless their access points are blocked or their nests removed, they’ll usually come right back. Scent deterrents work best when combined with physical barriers or professional exclusion tactics.

How Do You Permanently Get Rid of Pigeons Without Harming Them?

The most effective and humane way to permanently get rid of pigeons is by installing physical deterrents that make it impossible for them to land or nest. Tools like bird spikes, sloped sheathing, shock tracks, and bird netting prevent pigeons from settling without causing them harm, making these options ideal for long-term control.

These methods work by disrupting the pigeons’ comfort and sense of safety. Once they realize your property is no longer a suitable place to rest or breed, they’ll relocate on their own. When paired with regular maintenance and proper sanitation, these deterrents offer a safe and lasting solution without breaking any wildlife laws.

What Attracts Pigeons to Your Property?

Pigeons are drawn to places that offer easy access to food, water, and shelter. Open trash bins, leftover pet food, bird feeders, and even crumbs on the ground can act like a dinner bell for these birds. Flat surfaces like rooftops, balconies, and AC units also provide perfect roosting and nesting spots, especially if they’re undisturbed.

If you don’t remove the reasons they keep coming back, no deterrent will work for long. Keeping your property clean, sealing trash cans, and eliminating standing water can make a big difference. Combine this with regular inspections for nests or droppings to catch the problem early before it grows out of control.

Do Decoys and Noise Devices Really Work on Pigeons?

Decoys like plastic owls and predator statues may scare pigeons off for a few days, but these birds are smart and quickly figure out when a threat isn’t real. The same goes for noise-based repellents like ultrasonic devices or motion-triggered sounds—they might work temporarily, but pigeons often adapt and return once they realize there’s no actual danger.

For these tools to have any effect, they need to be part of a broader strategy that includes physical deterrents and exclusion methods. Changing the position of decoys often or using multiple sensory disruptions at once can buy you time, but won’t solve a full-blown infestation. If pigeons have already nested, they’re even harder to scare off without proper removal tactics.

Are DIY Pigeon Repellents Effective?

DIY pigeon repellents like reflective tape, aluminum foil strips, or homemade spice blends might offer some short-term relief, especially in low-traffic areas. These methods rely on visual or sensory disruption, which can confuse or annoy pigeons just enough to make them pause before landing.

The problem is that pigeons are persistent and quickly adapt to static deterrents that don’t physically block access. Without sealing entry points or removing attractants, DIY tricks won’t keep them away for long. They’re best used as a temporary stopgap while you work on a more permanent solution or wait for professional help.

What Is the Fastest Way to Get Rid of Pigeons?

The fastest way to get rid of pigeons is to act immediately by removing all food and water sources, installing physical deterrents like bird spikes or netting, and blocking off nesting areas. These steps make your property far less appealing and force the pigeons to relocate in search of easier roosting spots.

If the problem has already escalated, calling a professional wildlife removal service is the most efficient route. Experts can quickly assess the situation, remove any nests or droppings safely, and install long-term exclusion solutions tailored to your home. This not only saves time, but also prevents the birds from returning.

Long-Term Pigeon Prevention Tips

Keeping pigeons away for good means making your property as unwelcoming as possible. Start by sealing all gaps, vents, and eaves where pigeons might try to nest. Install sloped covers on flat surfaces, use mesh on overhangs, and make sure food scraps, pet bowls, and garbage are never left exposed.

Consistency is key. Even a small lapse—like leaving out birdseed or failing to clean up droppings—can invite pigeons right back. Schedule regular checks of your roof, ledges, and attic spaces, especially during breeding seasons. A proactive maintenance plan keeps pigeons out and protects your property year-round.

Call AAAC Wildlife Removal for Fast, Humane Pigeon Control

Dealing with pigeons is frustrating, messy, and often more complicated than it looks. At AAAC Wildlife Removal, we specialize in humane, effective pigeon control that doesn’t rely on guesswork or gimmicks. Our trained technicians will inspect your property, identify entry points, and install long-term deterrents tailored to your specific situation.

Whether you’re facing a rooftop infestation or just want to stop pigeons from nesting near your solar panels, we’ve got the tools and experience to get it done right. Don’t wait for the mess and noise to get worse—give us a call today and let’s keep your property clean, quiet, and pigeon-free.

Conclusion

Pigeons aren’t just annoying—they’re stubborn, messy, and can cause real damage if left unchecked. The sooner you act, the easier it is to prevent a full-blown infestation and protect your property from long-term issues.

By combining deterrents, proper cleanup, and expert help when needed, you can break the cycle and keep pigeons away for good. Don’t wait until it’s out of hand—start today, and reclaim your space from these unwanted guests.