Why Are There So Many Pigeons in London? Explained!

Pigeons, pigeons everywhere! If you’ve ever walked around London, you’ve probably noticed that the city is home to a plethora of these feathered friends. But have you ever wondered why there are so many f them in London?

London’s high population of pigeons is mainly due to the city’s ideal conditions for them. Numerous tall buildings with flat surfaces give these birds plenty of places to build nests, coo, and mate. Besides, many citizens provide a consistent bird food source by tossing out scraps in parks.

Here I’ll discuss the various questions about why there are so many pigeons in London, why they are attracted to the city, their impact on London’s environment, and more. So, without further ado, let’s look closely at London’s pigeon population.

What Attracts Pigeons to London?

Pigeons have been a common sight in London for centuries. They can be found in almost every park and Public Square in the city, and they are known for their resilience and adaptability.

With its thousands of buildings, nine million-strong population, and 20+ million annual tourists, London is a veritable paradise for pigeons. But why are they so attracted to the city?

Abundant Food Sources

Pigeons are opportunistic feeders and eat almost anything, including seeds, fruits, and even human food scraps. London offers plenty of food sources for them, from the seed-filled parks to the crumbs left behind by tourists.

Adequate Shelter and Nesting Sites

London’s architecture provides the perfect environment for pigeons to build their nests and raise their young. The city’s many ledges, cornices, and other protrusions offer the birds ample shelter and nesting opportunities.

Mild Climate

London has a temperate climate, with mild winters and cool summers, which makes it an ideal location for pigeons to thrive.

High Human Population Density

With so many food and shelter options accessible in metropolitan surroundings, London’s high human population density provides excellent circumstances for pigeons to thrive.

Feeding by Tourists

London attracts 20+ million annual tourists and loves to feed pigeons, making the city even more attractive for these birds.

Strict Laws on Killing Wild Birds

London has strict laws prohibiting killing wild birds, which also contributes to the abundance of pigeons in the city.

The Impact of Pigeons on London’s Environment and Society

While pigeons may be a familiar and even beloved sight in London, their large numbers can significantly impact the city’s environment and society.

• Health Hazard: One of the main issues caused by pigeons is the large amounts of droppings they produce. Pigeon droppings are unsightly and can also be a health hazard, as they can contain some pathogens and parasites that can cause human diseases.
• Damage Properties: They can also cause damage to buildings and other structures. Their droppings can corrode metal and stone surfaces, and their nests can block gutters and drainpipes, leading to water damage.
• Create Noise: Pigeons can also be a nuisance to residents and visitors in London, as they can congregate in large numbers in public spaces and make a lot of noise. This can be particularly problematic in areas with large numbers of pigeons, such as near parks and landmarks.

• May Hurt Local Wildlife: Besides these negative impacts, pigeons can harm local wildlife. They can compete with native bird species for food and nesting sites, and their large numbers can disrupt the natural balance of ecosystems.

How To Get Rid Of Pigeons From Your Business Premises In London?

Pigeons can be a nuisance and a health hazard on any business premises. They can cause additional problems in London, such as blocking drains and damaging roofs with their droppings. It is essential to take steps to prevent pigeons from inhabiting your business premises.

Here are a few tips to help you get rid of pigeons from your business premises in London:

Regular Clean Your Premises

Ensure that your premises are well maintained and that there are no potential food sources for the pigeons. Keep the area clean and clear at all times, and maintain a regular waste collection schedule.

Use Bird Deterrents

Install spikes or other bird deterrents on the ledges of your building to make it difficult for the pigeons to land. Consider using netting or other physical barriers to further discourage them.

Install Visual Deterrents

Utilize visual deterrents such as balloons, mirrors, or other reflective surfaces. These can be hung from the roof or other areas of your building to scare away the pigeons.

Ultrasonic Sound

Consider using sound deterrents such as ultrasonic bird repellers or bird distress calls. These can be effective in deterring pigeons.

Get Help From Professionals

Invest in professional pest control services to ensure your business premises are properly treated for pigeons. They can provide effective solutions for the long-term control of pigeons.

What Are the Benefits of Having Pigeons in Urban Areas?

Having pigeons in urban areas provides numerous benefits of keeping pigeons. These birds aid in pollination, contributing to a healthier ecosystem. Additionally, they can serve as indicators of air pollution levels, helping raise awareness about environmental issues. Their presence also adds a touch of natural beauty to concrete jungles, reminding us of the importance of coexisting with nature.

Does The London Government Have Any Plans To Control The Pigeon Population?

The London government hasn’t taken any significant steps to control the pigeon population in the city to date. However, the use of hawks like Lemmy to deter pigeons in London has been employed since the early 2000s.

This method is employed by pest control companies, who use trained hawks, falcons, and other birds of prey to keep pigeons away from areas where they’re considered a nuisance.

This approach has been met with both praise and criticism, with some deeming it to be an effective yet humane way of keeping pigeon populations in check, while others argue that it is inhumane and unnecessary.

The effectiveness of this method is still up for debate, as it is difficult to measure its impact on the pigeon population. Nevertheless, it is one of the few methods the London government employs to tackle the pigeon problem.

Tourists Feeding pigeons in London

Conclusion

It is clear to see why there are so many pigeons in London. The city offers a wide range of food sources, nesting spots, and a mild climate. While pigeons can be a nuisance, they are also crucial to the city’s ecosystem.

The best way to get rid of pigeons is to prevent them from entering your premises in the first place. The London government has various plans in place to control the pigeon population and keep them in check.