Lightwells and courtyards are normally very well sheltered by the nature of their location in a building. Pest birds are warm blooded like you and I and are always looking for a cosy, dry spot to perch or roost in. This is a particularly prevalent problem on older Victorian properties where there are external pipes ledges and corncing present.
Which species can cause problems?
Feral Pigeons (Columbia Liva)
What are the problems?
Perching birds can deposit bird droppings on pipes, ledges, sills, down the building facade and on the floor below.
Nest materials, food debris and feathers can block the drainage systems in the floors of courtyards and lightwells causing floods and damp problems.
Bird droppings and old nests deteriorate into a nutrient-rich substance from which vegetation can grow, blocking drainage hoppers and down pipes
Lice, ticks, mites and maggots associated with the infestation can find their way inside the building affecting the occupiers.
Heavy build-ups of bird droppings, dead birds and nest debris can be both smelly and unsightly, de-valuing the property.
How can I stop the problem?