Are Pigeon Spikes Humane?
Pigeon spikes, bird spikes, bird strips, bird strip spikes ...
Whatever it is that you want to call them, they come in very handy when you want to keep birds, just like pigeons, away from flat surfaces — windowsills, ledges, rooftops, etc. They're specific, targeted forms of bird-landing prevention, which basically means that the birds can't land there. You have put something in their path so that they can no longer use that space as their perch or roost.
Pigeon spikes can be used on sills, ledges, on TV aerials, on rooftops, on the top of fences and walls, on guttering, and in many more places around your home, and wherever the spikes are, the space is protected.
Do pigeon spikes hurt pigeons?
No, pigeon spikes will not hurt pigeons. They do have the ability to hurt pigeons, but it's not likely that the bird will still attempt to land there if the spikes have been affixed securely and properly. The aim of the game is to completely cover the surface, with multiple spikes that point out in slightly different directions from a main strip-based. When this has been done successfully, the birds simply won't land there.
What can go wrong with pigeon spike strips?
If used properly, there is very little that can go wrong with bird spike strips when used for pigeons. There are different sizes of strips — lengths and widths — and you'll need to make sure the spikes are big enough to keep the pigeons at bay, while being big enough to completely cover and protect the surface.
If you are using spike strips on or around guttering, it will require cleaning every now and again. If you don't do this, a buildup of garden debris/bird mess will build up and this can cause broken guttering or leakages. You should also ensure that the strip spikes are not attached inside the guttering itself, but instead attached to the edge of it. If it sits inside, it'll just give a blown-around mess and debris something to cling on to.
For homes or properties that have multiple bird invasions, spike strips for pigeons might not provide the best solution. Larger spikes can still allow for smaller birds to get in among them and roost. Similarly, smaller spike strips designed for smaller birds may not work effectively to give larger pigeons the heave-ho.
Pigeon spikes are humane and are advised as an effective method of pigeon removal by authorities across the globe. Even animal rights organisations have deemed them safe for use.
Speak to one of our fully-trained and licensed pigeon removal experts today to find out whether or not bird spike strips are going to be the right method of pigeon removal for your property.
Also read our other bird tip:
What areas can pigeons enter a house through?