Pest or Vermin:
Pigeons
Appearance:
The underparts and upper parts are blue-grey, but the back is paler, and there is
always a white patch on its rump. The neck is iridescent with green and purple.
The wings are grey except for two distinct black wing-bars. The eyes and legs are
red. 31-34 cm (12-13") long.
Food:
Pigeons eat 60gms of food per day and they can produce 20gms of droppings per day.
Habitat:
On ledges, parapets, balconies, in light wells, guttering etc. on almost any type of
building where they can nest or roost. They often enter disused buildings or floors
of buildings not in use through damaged windows or via holes – this becomes a
pigeon loft full of droppings, dead birds and eggs.
Breeding:
Pigeons lay 2 eggs and usually have 4 – 5 broods per year.
Diseases:
Pests and vermin may cause diseases. A disease is an abnormal condition that affects the body of an organism. It is often construed as a medical condition associated with specific symptoms and signs.
Damage:
Possible contamination of food products, spread of disease through dust,
Droppings can create slippery surfaces, feathers and droppings are also a health
risk, many insects associated with birds that cause irritation - biting mites, lice,
flies and fleas. Mites & insects sometimes migrate from nests to rooms or offices.