getting rid of pigeons from narrow ledges

In most situations either the Defender4™ Pigeon Spike (plastic spikes) or the Defender4™ Bird Spike (steel spikes) will help get rid of pigeons.

the problem

I need to get rid of pigeons which are perching on narrow ledges between 1" to 4" (25mm-100mm) in width causing soiling problems.

the solution

The best solution to get rid of pigeons from narrow ledges is by installing strips of bird spikes. These are manufactured by Jones and Son and are tried and tested on ledges that have a depth of 1 to 4 inches (25mm to 100mm). Each strip has an overall length of just over 13" (337mm). The Defender4™ Pigeon Spike (plastic spikes) and the Defender4™ Bird Spike (steel spikes) are suitable against even the heaviest pigeon infestation. For ledges width a depth of more than 4 inches (100mm) then the Defender8™ Pigeon and Bird Spikes are recommended.

• The Defender4™ Plastic Pigeon Spikes are made from super tough durolon UV stablised polycarbonate. Product warranty is 10 years.
• The Defender4™ Steel Bird Spikes are made from stainless steel 304 grade pigeon wires which protrude from a super tough Durolon polycarbonate base. They are slightly less visible when in situ than the plastic spikes with a product warranty of 12 years.

who supplies it?

• Jones & Son Ltd.
• Website
• Tel: 01626 835055
• Fax: 01626 835770
• Email: enquiries@jonesandson.co.uk

how do i install it?

Before starting the job, assess the work to make sure that you can do it safely and without hurting yourself or others. If you have any doubts at all then please contact a specialist. Wear suitable protective clothing, dust mask, gloves, overalls etc.

All areas should be prepared ensuring they are clean, dry and free from bird droppings. Check above the ledges as the source of the mess may actually be from ledges or pipes higher up on the building. If this is the case you will need to spike these as well because if this is not done, then droppings, twigs etc. may fall down onto the bird spikes below rendering them less effective.

Squeeze pigeon spike fixing silicone generously onto the base of the spike, about (10mm) the size of your finger. Thicker if the ledge is uneven.

Stick the first row of bird spikes towards the front of the ledge, so that the spikes fully protect the leading edge. Press down firmly so the glue oozes out through the little holes. If the gap behind the 1st row is greater than 2 inches (5cm) pigeons may get in behind. It is therefore necessary to install another row of spikes into this space to block it. For very wide ledges 3 or more rows of spikes may be required remembering to leave no more than 2 inches (5cm) between rows.

Every effort should be made to spike all possible landing sites that are 2 inches (5cm) or greater. Snap spikes into pieces to finish off rows or spike small areas. Spikes can be easily snapped using your fingers.

Always make sure that the base of the bird spikes are fixed directly onto the top of any parts of the ledge that may be raised slightly higher than the rest of the ledge. If this is not done then pigeons will overcome any spikes on lower parts by standing on the raised section. Spike the highest part of the ledge first then move on to spike the lower sections afterwards.

Important note : bird spikes will stop pigeons from sitting on a ledge; however if there is a hole in the eaves or a cavity in the exterior wall behind the spikes, pigeons will force their way past the spikes in an effort to get into that hole. Simply putting a spike in front of a hole will not stop the pigeon. Every effort should be made to block the access to this hole or space. You might be able to seal the hole with wire mesh or expanding foam.

Before blocking the hole you should ensure that pigeons have not become trapped in the recess. If you do discover any pigeon squabs or dependent birds please contact your local wildlife rehabilitator which can be found here.

A word of warning : scaffolders, window cleaners, painters, contractors on ladders etc. can often damage bird spikes. Ask them to be careful whilst working as a slightly damaged spike can provide an ideal nesting or roosting spot for a bird. Any damaged spikes should be replaced before pigeons have a chance to move in.