Products such as glues, wires, or electrical devices can 
also be used, but applications are usually expensive and not 
always effective. Most gluey substances stick to the feet, 
making the birds uncomfortable. These materials are spread in 
ribbons along ledges and copings and must be replenished fre- 
quently to remain effective. Somewhat more permanent products 
are those which utilize metal wires in the form of a bristling 
fence to prevent roosting. Buildings can also be fitted with 
electrical wires which, like an electric fence for livestock, 
give intermittent shocks to birds attempting to land on the 
wires. 
Removal of Nests 
Populations of pigeons can be reduced by destroying their 
nests and eggs at two-week intervals during the spring and summer 
months. Use a hook fastened to the end of a long pole to tear 
down nests under eaves and the like. 
Frightening Devices 
Noise-making devices have little permanent effect on roosting 
pigeons that are accustomed to city noises. High-frequency sound 
vibrations, inaudible to humans, or tape-recorded noises are not 
usually effective in scaring pigeons. Lights are also of little 
uS€e 
Shooting Roman candles or firecrackers into roosts are tempo- 
rarily effective in moving birds, but restrictive legislation 
against fireworks makes this method impractical in many areas. 
Streams of water from hoses will move pigeons from roosts. If 
streams of water or similar controls are to be effective, they 
must be persistently used until the birds have established them- 
selves elsewhere. 
Trapping 
Pigeons may be taken in traps placed on buildings and other 
likely locations. One very effective trap operates by baiting 
the birds through a door made of swinging, light-weight rods. As 
these rods will move only inward, the birds cannot return through 
the trap door. Live decoys in the traps will improve trapping 
efficiency. 
Shooting 
Before shooting pigeons, local police regulations should be 
consulted. Where permissible, shooting with .22 caliber rifles 
using ammunition loaded with fine shot; with .410 shotguns; or 
with high-powered air rifles, will eliminate small numbers of 
birds. 
