Pigeons, although often seen as a charming part of city life, can become a nuisance when they decide to roost on your property. Their droppings can be unsightly and corrosive, causing damage to buildings and vehicles. If you’ve been dealing with a pigeon problem and are looking for a humane way to deter these birds, you might be wondering, “What can I spray to keep pigeons away?”
To keep pigeons away, you can spray repellents that are either commercially available or homemade. Commercial sprays like Optical Gel and Bird-X 54-1 Proof Bird Repellent Gel are effective. For a DIY approach, you can make sprays using natural ingredients like peppermint oil, cayenne pepper, chili pepper, or garlic. These sprays work by giving off a scent that is unpleasant to pigeons, deterring them from your property.
DIY Pigeon Repellent Sprays
If you prefer a more natural approach, you can create your own homemade pigeon repellent sprays using everyday household ingredients. Here are a few recipes:
- Peppermint Oil Spray: Mix 14 drops of peppermint oil, 14 drops of lemon oil, ½ cup of white vinegar, and ½ cup of water in a spray bottle.
- Cayenne Pepper Spray: Combine 12 hot peppers, 32 ounces of water, and 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar.
- Chili Pepper Spray: Blend 4 dozens of chili pepper in a blender, then mix with 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar and 1 gallon of water.
- Garlic Oil Spray: Crush a few cloves of garlic and mix with vegetable oil and water.
These sprays work by giving off a scent that is unpleasant to pigeons. Remember to reapply these sprays regularly, as rain or wind can wash or blow them away.
Commercial Pigeon Repellent Sprays
If you’re looking for a ready-made solution, there are several effective sprays available on the market, such as:
- Optical Gel: This repellent contains citronella and peppermint oil, which are offensive to birds but mild and pleasant to humans.
- Bird-X 54-1 Proof Bird Repellent Gel: Available on Amazon, this gel repellent can be applied to surfaces to deter pigeons.
- Clensta Pigeon Repellent Spray: Enriched with lemongrass extracts and eucalyptus oil, this spray wards off pigeons without causing physical harm.
- Bird B Gone’s bird repellents: These liquid bird repellents are designed to drive birds away.
The success rate of these repellents may vary, as pigeons are highly intelligent birds and can quickly adapt to different deterrents.
How Pigeon Repellent Sprays Work
Pigeon repellent sprays work by using various mechanisms to deter pigeons from landing or roosting on surfaces. Some of these repellents use capsaicin, a compound found in chili peppers, which causes irritation to the birds. Other repellents use a combination of plant oils and water, creating a visual, scent, and taste deterrent for birds.
These repellents are designed to be safe and humane, causing discomfort to the birds without causing them harm. They can be applied to various surfaces, such as ledges, window sills, and other areas where pigeons are not welcome.
Safety and Environmental Impact
While these sprays are generally safe for use around humans and pets, they should still be used with caution. Always follow the product’s instructions, avoid contact with eyes and skin, and keep out of reach of children and pets.
Most of these sprays are also environmentally friendly. They’re made with natural ingredients and are biodegradable, meaning they won’t contribute to pollution or harm other wildlife.
Conclusion
Whether you choose a DIY or commercial pigeon repellent spray, remember to be patient. It may take some time for the pigeons to associate the unpleasant sensations with your property and decide to find a new place to roost. In the meantime, keep applying the spray as directed, and consider combining it with other deterrent methods for the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use these pigeon repellent sprays indoors?
Most pigeon repellent sprays are designed for outdoor use. However, if you have a severe indoor pigeon problem, you may use them indoors. Make sure the area is well-ventilated and the spray does not come into contact with food or cooking surfaces.
How often should I reapply the pigeon repellent spray?
The frequency of reapplication can depend on the specific product, weather conditions, and the severity of your pigeon problem. As a general rule, reapply the spray every week or after heavy rain. Always follow the instructions on the product label.
Will the repellent sprays harm other types of birds?
While these sprays are designed to deter pigeons, they may also affect other types of birds. However, they are not harmful and will only cause discomfort, encouraging the birds to find another place to roost.
Are these sprays safe for use around plants?
Yes, these sprays are generally safe for use around plants. However, it’s always a good idea to test a small amount on one plant before applying it to all of them. If you notice any adverse effects, discontinue use.
Can I use these sprays on my vehicle to keep pigeons away?
Yes, these sprays can be used on vehicles. However, it’s recommended to test the spray on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it does not damage the paint or finish.
