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The Best Way to Keep Pigeons Out of My Barn

Pigeons, also known as rock doves, may quickly become a problem when a flock begins to gather in the same place. Pigeons can carry diseases and ruin a barn floor with their feathers and droppings. If your barn has been invaded by pigeons, take action immediately to make the structure inhospitable.

Things You'll Need

Wire mesh
Roof spikes
Artificial predatory bird

Instructions

- 1
  
  Pigeons saved lives during both world wars by carrying messages across enemy lines.
  
  Remove garbage and other food sources that might attract pigeons from outside the barn. Pigeons are not picky eaters and will scavenge for food almost anywhere. Discourage them by making it difficult to access food around the barn.
- 2
  
  Elvis Presley, Mike Tyson and Queen Elizabeth all have one thing in common; they all kept pigeons as a hobby.
  
  Locate any pigeon nests inside the barn. Baby pigeons stay in the nest for up to two months, so be sure the nest is empty and no longer in use. Check rafters, gutters and other sheltered coves where the birds might be tempted to nest. If you discover an empty nest, remove it from the barn.
- 3
  
  The pigeon's only natural enemies are man and the peregrine falcon.
  
  Set spikes on the edge of the roof and on top of rafters to discourage pigeons from roosting on your barn. Cover any flat area where the birds might be tempted to rest. Placing wire mesh on the roof will make it uncomfortable for the pigeon's feet.
- 4
  
  Pigeons mate for life. Baby pigeons are called "squabs."
  
  Purchase a plastic owl or other large predatory bird and place it in a prominent place on or near the barn. The fake predator will fool the pigeons and keep them away from the barn as if it were a scarecrow.

Animals & Science