New Delhi: If your balcony is often dirty with pigeon droppings or feathers or they have made a nest in a pot or any corner, then you are not alone in this problem. Pigeons nesting on the balcony or cornice is a common problem. They not only spread dirt but can also be harmful for health. There is a risk of lung diseases due to their feathers and droppings, especially in children and the elderly. Therefore, it is better to keep them away from your balcony. However, there is no need to adopt expensive equipment or cruel methods to drive them away. You can also keep pigeons away from the balcony with some easy ways. Do not make a place for their 'landing' Pigeons like to sit on flat and stable places, such as railings, pipes or on top of air conditioners. The most effective way to prevent them from sitting at these places is to create a physical barrier there. Bird spikes - This is the easiest solution. Stick these plastic or stainless steel barbed strips on railings or other flat surfaces. This will make it difficult for pigeons to sit there, but they will not get hurt. Sloped Surfaces- You can fix wooden or plastic sheets at a 45 degree angle on the flat surface above the railing. Due to the slope, pigeons will not be able to maintain balance and will avoid sitting there. Bird Netting- If the balcony is open and pigeons come and sit inside, then netting is the best option. Cover the entire balcony with a strong nylon mesh. This will prevent pigeons from coming inside, but air and light will keep coming. Keep them away from 'home' Pigeons make nests in places where they get a place to hide and feel safe. Empty boxes kept in the balcony, old furniture, or junk accumulated in corners are perfect places for them. Keep it clean- Keep your balcony clean and organized. Remove unnecessary items. Close the corners- If there is a corner in the balcony where they can easily make a nest, then close it with cardboard or mesh. Do not keep food items Often we provide them food unknowingly. Therefore, the most important step to drive them away is not to keep food for them in the balcony. Do not keep grains in the open- Even if you feed the birds, do not keep it in the open in the balcony. Keep the garbage covered- If you keep garbage in the kitchen balcony, always keep it in a dustbin with a lid. Do not let water accumulate- Stagnant water in the saucers of flower pots or leaking taps also attract pigeons. Keep it clean. Put shiny things Pigeons are suspicious and are afraid of strange things, shine or strong smells. Shiny and moving things- Hang old CDs, strips of aluminum foil, or shiny tape in the balcony. These confuse and scare the pigeons by shining and making noise in the wind and sunlight. Strong smelling substances- Pigeons run away from things with strong smell. You can spray cloves, cinnamon, black pepper powder or vinegar solution in the places where they often come. You may have to repeat this two-three times a week.
