Tired of Pigeons? These 9 Easy Ways to Keep Them Away Really Work—Plus 2 Hygienic Methods to Clean Balcony Droppings
Many city dwellers, especially in metropolitan cities like Mumbai and Pune, find themselves grappling with the challenges posed by pigeons.
They can be seen using various means to tackle the issue. The most common problem is the foul smell and unsightly mess created by pigeon droppings on their balconies and terraces. The droppings not only mar the aesthetic beauty of the homes but can also pose serious health hazards, as they are known to harbor harmful bacteria and fungi. In this article, we present two easy tricks to clean pigeon droppings and keep your balcony spick and span.
According to experts, pigeon droppings contain harmful fungi and bacteria that can be detrimental to human health. The most commonly found ones are Aspergillus and Cryptococcus. These can lead to diseases such as allergies and asthma. Leading pulmonary specialists from Pune state that pigeon droppings and feathers can cause respiratory ailments.
Given the health risks involved, it’s important to regularly clean the droppings from your balcony or terrace. Here are a few tips to do so safely and effectively:
- First, fill a large tub with water and mix in an equal amount of detergent and vinegar to prepare a cleaning solution.
- Pour this solution onto your balcony floor and let it sit for about 10 to 15 minutes.
- Then, use a scrubber brush or mop to scrub the entire floor.
- After scrubbing, prepare a new tub of clean water and mix in some phenyl or Dettol.
- Rinse the floor with this disinfectant solution to ensure all the remnants of droppings and cleaning solution are gone.
While cleaning is essential, it’s even better to prevent pigeons from dirtying your balcony in the first place. Here are a few ways you can deter them:
- Install netting around your entire balcony or terrace. This will prevent pigeons and other birds from easily entering.
- Prepare a mixture of vinegar and baking soda in a bottle and spray it around your balcony daily. Most birds, including pigeons, dislike the smell of this mixture. Repeat this method regularly for 2 to 3 weeks, and you’ll notice a decrease in the number of pigeons visiting your balcony.
- Use Bird Spikes: Install bird spikes on ledges, roofs, and other surfaces where pigeons like to perch. These spikes are harmless but make it uncomfortable for pigeons to land.
- Use Reflective Objects: Hang shiny objects like CDs, aluminum foil, or reflective tape around your property. The reflections scare pigeons away.
- Hang Wind Chimes: Wind chimes not only look nice and sound pleasant but can also deter pigeons with their noise and movement.
- Use Pigeon Repellent Spray: Natural pigeon repellent sprays, often made with ingredients like peppermint oil, can be sprayed in areas where pigeons roost.
- Apply Spices: Sprinkle spices like chili powder, black pepper, or cinnamon where pigeons roost. Pigeons dislike these strong smells and will stay away.
- Employ Decoys: Place decoy predators like fake owls or hawks around your property. Pigeons will avoid areas where they think predators are present.
- Use Ultrasonic Devices: Ultrasonic pigeon repellents emit high-frequency sounds that pigeons find unpleasant. These devices can be an effective way to keep pigeons at bay.
In conclusion, while pigeons can pose a nuisance in city homes, a few simple measures can go a long way in managing the problem. Remember, maintaining a clean and hygienic living environment is crucial for your health and well-being.
