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.

For courtyards and light wells there are four main solutions.

Pigeon control netting is the best solution. Installed at the highest possible point above all perch points to seal off the problem area a>

Pigeon spikes can be installed on the areas where the birds are perching in the courtyard or lightwell, such as gutters, pipe work and ledges. Use our specialist clips and ties to attach to windows, pipes and gutters a>

Judicious use of our ultrasonic bird repellers can have a dramatic effect on bird infestations in courtyards, driving birds away. Ensure there are no sound shadows where birds can hide by use a multi-speaker system a>

Use bio-acoustic deterrents to scare birds away from courtyards, atriums and lightwells using their ownnatural distress calls a>

Use our PX Ornikill avian disinfectant to neutralise any bird droppings and nests before removing them to avoid disease transfer to humans. We also stock personal protective clothing and tools appropriate for guano clearance a>