Why Do Pigeons Keep Coming to Your Window? How to Stop It!

Pigeons are ubiquitous in urban areas, and their presence can often be a nuisance to homeowners. Many people wonder why these birds keep congregating at their windows, leaving behind droppings and making noise.

Pigeons are attracted to windows for several reasons, including the reflection of light, the warmth of the glass, and the potential for food scraps. They may also use windows as a vantage point to survey their surroundings. 

While this behavior may seem harmless, constantly having pigeons flock to your window can leave unwanted marks and droppings. In this article, we will explore why pigeons keep coming to windows and how to deter them from doing so.

Reasons Pigeons are Drawn to Windows

Pigeons are a common sight, and it’s not uncommon to find a group perched on a windowsill or hovering around a windowpane. There are several reasons why pigeons are drawn to windows.

Natural Light & Reflection as Attraction Factors

• Pigeons are attracted to natural light and are known to bask in the sun. Windows provide them with an unobstructed view of the outdoors, making it an ideal spot to catch some rays.
• Pigeons are also attracted to reflections, especially if they see their reflection in the glass. This reflection triggers their territorial instincts, making them believe another pigeon is around. This can lead to them pecking at the window or flying into it, causing damage.

The Need for Shelter & Warmth

• Pigeons seek shelter when the weather is harsh, and windows provide them a safe spot to roost. They can escape high winds, heavy rain, and snowfall by finding refuge on windowsills or ledges.
• In colder months, windows that receive direct sunlight can provide warmth for pigeons seeking to regulate their body temperature. Pigeons often huddle together for warmth and use the window as a heat source.

Availability of Food

• Pigeons are known to scavenge for food, and windows provide easy access to a food source. Regularly feeding birds by placing food on a windowsill can attract pigeons, as they associate the window with a reliable food source.
• Pigeons are also attracted to crumbs or food residue on windows or nearby surfaces. Regular cleaning of windows can help deter pigeons from hanging around.

Consequences of Pigeon Infestations

There are consequences of pigeon infestations, including health risks associated with pigeon droppings, structural damage caused by pigeons, and the overall impact on quality of life.

Health Risks Associated with Droppings

Pigeon droppings contain harmful bacteria and fungi that can cause serious health problems if inhaled or ingested.

• Histoplasmosis: a fungal infection that can cause flu-like symptoms, including fever, cough, and fatigue. In severe cases, it can lead to lung damage and other complications.
• Cryptococcosis: another fungal infection that can cause respiratory problems, fever, and headaches. It can be particularly dangerous for people with weakened immune systems.
• Salmonella: a bacterial infection that can cause diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. In severe cases, it can lead to hospitalization.

Structural Damage

Pigeons can cause significant damage to buildings and other structures. They often nest in or near roof spaces, gutters, and chimneys, leading to blocked drainage systems and water damage. Pigeon droppings can also corrode metal surfaces and cause damage to paint and other finishes.

Some of the structural damage that pigeons can cause includes:

• Blocked gutters: Pigeon nests and droppings can cause blockages in gutters, leading to water damage and potential structural problems.
• Roof damage: pigeons can peck at roof tiles and create holes, allowing water to penetrate the roof space.
• Corrosion: pigeon droppings contain uric acid, which can corrode metal surfaces and cause damage to paint and other finishes.

Overall Impact on Quality of Life

The presence of pigeons can have a significant impact on the quality of life in urban areas. Pigeon droppings can make sidewalks and public spaces slippery and unsanitary, posing a health risk to residents.

The noise and mess created by pigeon flocks can also be a nuisance, making it difficult to sleep or enjoy time outdoors. Some of the ways that pigeon infestations can impact quality of life include:

• Slippery sidewalks: pigeon droppings can make sidewalks and other surfaces slippery, posing a risk of falls and injuries.
• Noise pollution: pigeons can be noisy, especially when they are nesting or gathering in large flocks. This can be a particular problem in urban areas where living spaces are close together.
• Unsightly mess: pigeon droppings can be unsightly and difficult to clean up, leading to a decline in the aesthetic appeal of public spaces.

Steps You Can Take to Keep Pigeons Away

If you are experiencing problems with pigeons flying to your windows, you can take a few simple steps to discourage them from coming near your property.

Simple DIY Solutions

• Use bird netting or wire mesh to cover the open spaces around your windows. You can attach them using duct tape or other adhesive material. This will prevent pigeons from landing on your window sills and will help to reduce their numbers.
• Install visual bird deterrents close to your windows, such as reflective surfaces or moving objects that scare pigeons away.
• Keep your windows clean, as pigeons are attracted to bird droppings – they will think it’s a food source.
• Scare pigeons away with loud noises if they persist in coming to your window. This can be done using wind chimes or a loudspeaker that plays bird distress calls.

Professional Pigeon Removal and Prevention Services

If the problem persists, consider hiring a professional pest control company specializing in bird control services. They can provide a range of measures, including netting, spikes, and other deterrents, that are more specialized and effective than diy fixes.

What Should I Do If a Pigeon Bites Me While Trying to Stop Them from Coming to My Window?

If a pigeon bites you while attempting to deter them from coming to your window, there are a few pigeon biting prevention tips you can follow. Firstly, avoid direct physical contact with the pigeons. Secondly, discourage their presence by using barriers like mesh screens or spikes. Lastly, consult animal control or pest control professionals for further assistance and guidance.

Conclusion

Pigeons are attracted to windows for several reasons, including warmth, food, or a safe nesting spot. These birds are intelligent creatures and have learned to associate windows with a potential food source or a safe place to nest.

While their presence may seem harmless at first, pigeons can cause damage to window frames and buildings over time, along with certain health risks associated with their droppings. Prevention is key to managing pigeon problems, whether through bird netting, spikes, or a simple change in behavior.