The wild domestic pigeon, or rock dove, a native of Europe and Asia exists in wild flocks throughout most of Michigan. Although an interesting addition to both urban and rural areas, its numbers can increase to the point where its droppings create a nuisance and potential health hazard, deteriorate structures and equipment, and contaminate stored foods and feed. At this point damage control is often desired. Exclusion Pigeons often become a problem on homes and other building when the architecture of the building or improper maintenance creates ideal roosting and nesting spots.
Pigeons often roost and nest on ledges where roofs and eves join and sometimes on wide window sills.
Prevent roosting and nesting by boxing in these areas with plywood or lumber, or by enclosing them with hardware cloth to eliminate roosting sites. In many older buildings, grain elevators and feed mills, broken windows, doors, and damaged wood work and roofing allow pigeons into buildings where they roost and nest. The only solution is to make the necessary repairs. Repulsion Many of the materials available for repelling pigeons from buildings are usually worthless. In general, any auditory or visual repellent for pigeons will only be effective for a few days.