Pigeons are resourceful birds that can access many types of bird feeders designed for smaller songbirds. While pigeons themselves are not harmful, their droppings can spread disease. Additionally, large flocks of pigeons can quickly empty bird feeders intended for other types of birds. Therefore, many bird enthusiasts look for ways to discourage pigeons from their feeders. The most effective bird feeders use size and weight restrictions that allow smaller birds access while keeping larger pigeons out. Careful feeder placement and maintenance can also help limit pigeon access.
Why Do Pigeons Go to Bird Feeders?
Pigeons are opportunistic birds that have adapted well to urban environments. They congregate wherever food is abundant, including parks, city squares, and anywhere people feed birds. Pigeons enjoy many types of birdseed, particularly millet and cracked corn. They are also drawn to breadcrumbs, leftover scraps, and food waste. Pigeons have no trouble perching on platform feeders or clinging to mesh feeders to eat. They will consume as much food as possible at each visit.
Problems Caused by Pigeons at Feeders
While pigeons themselves cause little harm, their droppings can spread diseases, leading most homeowners to view them as pests. Pigeon droppings contain the fungus Cryptococcus neoformans which can cause lung infections in humans. Bird droppings also contain over 60 other fungi and bacteria that are potentially dangerous. In addition, large pigeon flocks can quickly drain bird feeders, leaving little food for smaller birds. Pigeons aggressively chase off other birds and monopolize feeders. Their bulky bodies and sharp claws can damage more delicate feeders.
Bird Feeder Designs that Deter Pigeons
When attempting to deter pigeons, homeowners must look for bird feeders designed with weight and size restrictions. Feeders with narrow perches and small food ports prevent pigeons from perching or fitting their head inside. Placing feeders a safe distance from roof overhangs is also important. Here are some of the most effective bird feeder styles for deterring hungry pigeons:
Tube Feeders
Tube feeders, also known as cylindrical or sock feeders, consist of a plastic or glass tube, with feeding ports and a base or hanging rod. Choose tube feeders with short perch lengths of 3 inches or less, and very narrow feeding ports of 1 inch in diameter. This prevents pigeons from perching or accessing the seed. Look for tube feeders with metal ports, as pigeons can easily break plastic ports. Squirrel-resistant tube feeders with weighted perch covers also stop pigeons. Hang tube feeders at least 5 feet off the ground and away from ledges to make perching difficult.
| Tube Feeder Features | Deters Pigeons? |
|---|---|
| Short perch length (under 3 inches) | Yes |
| Narrow feed ports (1 inch diameter) | Yes |
| Metal feeding ports | Yes |
| Weighted perch covers | Yes |
| Hanging 5+ feet high | Yes |
House Feeders
Enclosed house feeders or aviaries prevent access by pigeons and larger birds. House feeders typically have clear plastic or plexiglass sides, a roof, one or more perches, and feeding ports on the sides or base. Look for house feeders with 1-1.5 inch diameter openings only large enough for small birds. Place the feeder on a pole or post with a predator baffle. Or hang the feeder at least 5 feet high. When mounted correctly, house feeders protect seed from weather and keep birds safe from predators.
| House Feeder Features | Deters Pigeons? |
|---|---|
| Small feeding ports (1-1.5 inches) | Yes |
| Enclosed plastic or plexiglass sides | Yes |
| Rooftop | Yes |
| Mounted on pole with baffle | Yes |
| Hanging 5+ feet high | Yes |
Mesh Tube Feeders
Mesh tube feeders have wire mesh wrapped around a central tube, rather than solid plastic or glass. Choose mesh with smaller gaps of 1⁄2 inch or less to prevent pigeons from reaching the seed. Avoid mesh tubes with large openings of 1 inch that pigeons can easily stick their heads through. Look for mesh feeders with reinforced metal mesh that resists damage from aggressive birds. Like standard tube feeders, choose versions with restricted perches and ports and hang them in open areas.
| Mesh Tube Feeder Features | Deters Pigeons? |
|---|---|
| Small mesh openings (1⁄2 inch or less) | Yes |
| Metal mesh construction | Yes |
| Restricted perches | Yes |
| Restricted ports | Yes |
| Hanging in open area | Yes |
Suet Feeders
Suet feeders hold suet cakes or plugs made from animal fat and birdseed. Avoid open basket-style suet holders, as pigeons can perch and eat from these. Look for enclosed suet cages with small 1-2 inch openings that prevent pigeon access. When mounted on freestanding poles, suet cages with restricted openings effectively deter pigeons. Make sure to position suet feeders at least 5 feet off the ground.
| Suet Feeder Features | Deters Pigeons? |
|---|---|
| Enclosed cage construction | Yes |
| Small openings (1-2 inches) | Yes |
| Free standing pole mount | Yes |
| 5+ foot mounting height | Yes |
Additional Tips to Limit Pigeons
In addition to buying pigeon-resistant feeders, consider the following tips:
Location
Carefully consider feeder placement. Avoid locations near roof overhangs or ledges where pigeons roost. Place feeders at least 5-10 feet away from the house, trees, fences, or other structures. Pigeons are less likely to perch and eat from feeders in open areas.
Cleanliness
Keep the area under feeders clean. Use feeders with catch trays and clean up fallen seeds, hulls, and other debris. Pigeons scavenge for leftover debris on the ground. Removing food remnants encourages pigeons to look elsewhere for food.
Motion-activated Sprinklers
Install a squirrel-deterrent sprinkler near your feeder. The sprinkler will automatically spray pigeons when they land, teaching them to avoid the area. Choose sprinklers with an adjustable range to target the right coverage area.
Pest-repellent Gels
Apply non-toxic bird gel repellents on ledges, rooflines, railings, or other areas where pigeons roost near feeders. The sticky gels make perching uncomfortable, encouraging pigeons to relocate. Reapply gels as needed after rain or snow.
Population Control
In areas with heavy pigeon populations, consider humane population control methods. Installing birdbloxx pigeon houses allows the controlled administration of OvoControl P, a chemical pigeon contraception. Pigeon houses with OvoControl P stabilize flocks by reducing hatching rates. When used together, pigeon houses and deterrent feeders provide effective and lasting results.
Conclusion
Discouraging pigeons comes down to smart bird feeder selection and placement. Choose feeders with size and weight restrictions that physically block pigeons from perching or feeding. Tube feeders, house feeders, mesh feeders, and suet feeders all make access difficult when designed properly. Install feeders at safe distances from buildings and cover. Combine deterrent feeders with other exclusion methods for best results. With some planning, bird lovers can enjoy feeding songbirds while keeping pesky pigeons away. A thoughtful approach allows hobbyists to bird watch a diverse range of species. Excluding pigeons from feeders takes a bit of work but rewards homeowners with a balanced and engaging backyard ecosystem.
