Birds We Control - Bird Control London

Here at Safeguard we specialise in the control of many pest birds and other pests such as rodents and insects. In and around London, pigeons are by far the most common pest bird but we also control other pest birds such as starlings.

Below you will find more details of the most common pest bird, the feral pigeon (columba livia):

Important Features of Pigeons

Descended from the rock dove, the feral pigeon is very well equipped live in an urban environment. The feral pigeon mainly lives on waste food left by humans, and as a result is most commonly in the most densely populated urban areas such as London.

Size and Colour of Feral Pigeons

The average size of a feral pigeon is about 33cm long and the average weight is 330g. Colour of the plumage can vary widely.

Living and Breeding Habits

Feral pigeons like to frequent and nest on ledges, girders and gaps that are found on both old and modern buildings. They also commonly nest in lofts of residential and commercial properties.

The main breeding period for feral pigeons is from March to July but the may breed throughout the whole year if conditions are favourable. Normally, 2 white eggs are laid and are incubated by both sexes for 17-19 days. Young birds can be independent at 30-37 days and a feral pigeon may rear around 4-7 broods per year.

Feeding Habits of Feral Pigeons

Feral pigeons normally eat about 80g per day. They are scavengers and in town centres they will rely on scraps and spillages and are also fed by members of the public.

Controlling Feral Pigeons

Several methods are commonly used for controlling feral pigeons. The installation of netting, point prevention / bird spikes and spring wire systems are all effective ways of controlling feral pigeon populations.

For more information on these methods, please visit the prevention page.