How to get rid of pigeon bugs? - briefly
Eliminate access by removing roosting sites, sealing cracks, and cleaning all droppings. Treat the area with an appropriate insecticide or diatomaceous earth to kill any remaining pests.
How to get rid of pigeon bugs? - in detail
Pigeon-associated insects, such as mites, lice and fleas, thrive in lofts, nesting boxes and surrounding structures. Infestations cause irritation to birds, damage to feathers and can spread to humans. Prompt identification and systematic treatment are essential to eradicate the problem.
Typical indicators include birds scratching excessively, visible specks on feathers, feather loss, and a dusty, oily residue on surfaces. In the environment, look for tiny moving dots on walls, in cracks, and on perches. Collect a sample with clear tape and examine under magnification to confirm the species.
The eradication process consists of three phases: sanitation, direct treatment, and preventive maintenance.
- Sanitation
- Direct treatment
- Apply an approved acaricide or insecticide according to label directions; ensure thorough coverage of perches, roosts and hidden crevices.
- Use a fogger or ULV spray for large lofts, allowing adequate ventilation after application.
- For resistant populations, rotate products with different active ingredients to avoid resistance buildup.
- Physical controls
Environmental management reduces future outbreaks. Regularly clean lofts, replace worn roosting bars, and maintain proper ventilation to lower humidity, which discourages mite development. Limit food and water spillage to avoid attracting wild birds that can introduce new parasites.
After treatment, schedule weekly inspections for at least four weeks. Record any resurgence and repeat chemical application if necessary. Long‑term success depends on consistent cleaning, monitoring, and exclusion of new birds that may carry insects.