Households across the UK that feed pigeons in their garden have been issued a warning.
Wildlife experts are urging households not to use bird feeders in their gardens as they attract pigeons, who eat all of the food quickly and leave nothing for other birds.
Not only does this mean feeders constantly need refilling, but by attracting pigeons into gardens this can discourage smaller birds from visiting as they are intimidated by their larger size, so it means other wildlife have less access to food.
Richard Green, wildlife expert from Kennedy Wild Bird Food & Pet Supplies, says that households should instead add seed trays to feeders as this helps to reduce the amount of seeds that are dropped on the ground, which often lures pigeons in.
It’s also recommended that if you have a bird feeder in your garden, you should add a cage around it as this allows small birds to still reach the food but larger birds, like pigeons, won’t be able to get to it.
Alternatively, you can opt to use pigeon-proof designed feeders which are often angled so that the birds struggle to get a good grip.
Mr Green explains: “Fallen seed is a major attraction for pigeons and other pests, such as rats. Adding seed catchers beneath feeders helps stop seeds from reaching the ground. It’s also important to regularly clean up any remaining food to keep your garden tidy and free from unwanted visitors.
“Feeders designed to keep pigeons away often feature vertical or angled surfaces that pigeons struggle to grip.
“Pigeons are not as agile as smaller birds, so creating feeding spaces with uneven or narrow perches can make a big difference in keeping them at bay.”
Another option to prevent pigeons stealing all the food from other birds is to put out things like nyjer seed, suet balls or sunflower hearts, as these are less appealing to them so it gives smaller birds a better chance to enjoy the food on offer.
Of course, if you want to keep feeding pigeons in your garden, without excluding smaller birds, it’s advised that you set up separate feeding areas.
Mr Green adds: “Ground feeders with high-cereal seed mixes are ideal for pigeons, while smaller, more protected feeders can be reserved for smaller species. This allows all birds to enjoy your garden without competing for food.”
