When thinking of pests in Virginia, most people picture ants, roaches, or mice, but pigeons are often overlooked. These birds can become a real nuisance, especially in spring and summer, causing damage to property and spreading diseases through their droppings. Their presence can also attract other wildlife, compounding the problem for homeowners.
At Xceptional Wildlife Removal, we recognize that pigeons have a fascinating history. They were once essential messengers during wartime, with 32 receiving the Dickin Medal for service in World War II. Beyond their heroic contributions, pigeons have also been bred for their beauty, with unique color patterns that make them prized in exhibitions and competitions.
Learn these astonishing pigeon facts, plus what steps to take if pigeons become a nuisance where you live:
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Pigeons Are Natural Omnivores
Pigeons will eat just about anything, from grains, fruits, and leafy greens to small insects, snails, and worms. In urban areas, New York pigeons are also notorious for scavenging from trash cans, dumpsters, and leftovers, making them incredibly adaptable when it comes to finding food.
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Pigeons Mate for Life
Pigeons are monogamous and usually stay with the same mate for life. After a brief courtship period, they build a nest together and raise their young as a pair, demonstrating loyalty that few other bird species show.
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Pigeons are One of the First Domesticated Birds
The rock pigeon is believed to be among the earliest domesticated birds, with humans raising them long before household parakeets or fancy pigeons became common. Evidence of pigeons appears in art dating back to 4500 BC, and they were valued both for meat and for their ability to carry messages over long distances.
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Pigeons are Master Navigators
Pigeons have an extraordinary sense of direction, able to return to their nests from distances up to 1,300 miles away. They can do this even when blindfolded or transported without any clues to their location, a skill that has fascinated scientists for decades.
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Pigeons Have Hearing That Guides Them
Pigeons can hear lower-frequency sounds than humans, which plays a key role in their navigation. This acute sense of hearing helps them detect environmental cues and stay oriented, even in unfamiliar surroundings.
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Humans Are Their Favorite Neighbors
Pigeons thrive near people, often nesting around Suffolk County & Nassau County homes. Being close to humans gives them easy access to essential resources like food, water, and shelter, which explains why they’re so common in urban and suburban areas.
How to Manage Unwanted Pigeons
Few pests are as adaptable as pigeons, and they can quickly become a nuisance. When you notice pigeons causing trouble on your Virginia property, try the following measures:
- Avoid Feeding Them: Feeding pigeons only encourages more to gather. Keep garbage cans tightly secured and never leave pet food outside, as these attract pigeons and make infestations worse.
- Block Their Nesting Spots: Seal or fill in potential nesting areas such as eaves, rafters, and ledges. Adding deterrents like bird spikes, netting, or mesh can make these areas unappealing for pigeons.
- Professional Help: A trained pest control company experienced in bird control, like Xceptional Wildlife Removal, can safely remove pigeons and prevent them from returning. Professionals have the right tools and strategies to pigeon-proof your property effectively.
Protect Your Virginia Property from Pigeons
At Xceptional Wildlife Removal, we know that dealing with pigeons is the last thing homeowners want on their Virginia property. These birds can quickly cause damage and create health concerns if left unchecked. We focus on humane, effective pigeon removal and offer ongoing services to help prevent future infestations. You can count on us to handle your pigeon issues with care and expertise.
Call Xceptional Wildlife Removal now for professional pigeon control you can trust!