Alright, let's talk pigeons! They're fascinating little guys, and if you're keen on making your backyard a pigeon paradise, or just want to attract a few feathered buddies, you've come to the right place. I've picked up a trick or two over the years, so think of this as your insider's guide to pigeon-friendly gardening.
Creating a Pigeon Paradise: Your Backyard Guide
1. Feeding Your Feathered Friends: The Pigeon Grub Hub
First off: food! What do these urban doves actually like to eat? Think about what they’d naturally find scratching around for. Forget fancy birdseed mixes, the basics are best:
- Cracked Corn and Wheat: This is your bread and butter. It’s like the burgers and fries of the pigeon world. In many UK garden centres, you can find specific "poultry corn" which is a readily available and cost-effective choice.
- Millet, Sunflower Seeds, Dried Peas, and Sorghum: A bit of variety never hurts. Think of it as the pigeon equivalent of a salad bar, or a healthy side. You can often find these ingredients in mixed wild bird seed bags, though pigeons tend to favour the larger components.
- Avoid "People Food": Sure, they’ll scarf down breadcrumbs and chips if they can, but that stuff's got no nutritional value. It's like eating candy all the time – not exactly a balanced diet! Stick to the good stuff, and your pigeons will be healthier and happier. Plus, leaving out human food can attract less desirable guests like rats or foxes.
Practical Tip: Don't bother cooking anything! Pigeons are perfectly happy with raw grains and seeds. Keep it simple! It will save you time and effort.
2. Building the Perfect Pigeon Diner: Choosing the Right Feeder
Forget those dinky, fiddly bird feeders meant for tits and finches. Pigeons are, well, pigeons. They need space to perch and get their fill.
- Open Platform or Tray Feeders: These are the way to go. Think of them as a pigeon picnic table. Look for ones with wide ledges so they can easily stand and reach the food. You can even repurpose a large, shallow plant pot saucer.
- Ground Feeding (with Caution): Pigeons are more than happy to eat off the ground, but only if they feel safe. Scatter some food in an open area, away from potential predators (like cats!), and see what happens. Be aware that this can attract other animals like mice.
- Feeder Placement: Aim for about 5 feet off the ground. This can deter squirrels and other critters. Fix it to a wall or fence post for stability, especially in windy areas.
3. Location, Location, Location: Where to Set Up Shop
The spot where you put the feeder is key to their comfort and safety.
- Near Plants and Trees: Think of it like a pigeon-friendly neighbourhood. The bushes and trees give them cover from predators, which makes them feel safe and sound. Just don't put the feeder inside thick foliage – they need clear sightlines!
- Protected from the Wind: A feeder blowing over is just asking for trouble... and a hungry bird. Sheltered locations also keep the food drier, preventing mould growth.
- Keep it Open: Pigeons like open spaces and generally avoid heavily wooded areas. They don't want to be stuck in the woods. A small patch of lawn near the feeder is ideal.
4. Patience is a Virtue: How to Handle Your Visitors
Don’t expect a flock of pigeons to show up the minute you put out the food. Be patient and understanding.
- Observe from a Distance: Give them some space at first. Wild pigeons are often skittish. Let them get used to you. Observing them from inside the house is a good start.
- Stay Still: Once they start showing up, try to remain as still as possible when you're outside. Sudden movements will scare them off.
- Park Pigeons: If you're feeding in a park, they're probably already used to people, so you can get a little closer. However, be mindful of local bylaws regarding feeding wildlife in public spaces.
5. Consistency is Key: The Power of a Routine
Pigeons are creatures of habit. Once they realize there’s a reliable food source, they'll be back like clockwork.
- Feed at the Same Time: Aim for morning and evening feedings. That’s when they're most actively foraging.
- Be Consistent: It might take a few days for them to catch on, but once they do, they'll anticipate the feeding times.
- Stay Persistent: If they’re slow to arrive at first, don't give up. Keep putting the food out regularly, and they’ll eventually come. Don't be disheartened if they only come on certain days or at specific times of the year.
6. Keeping Things Tidy: Maintaining a Clean Eating Space
Let's face it, birds can be messy eaters. Keeping the feeding area clean is important for both the birds' health and to avoid attracting unwanted pests like rodents.
- Sweep Up Regularly: After the pigeons have eaten, sweep up any spilled seeds and husks. A stiff brush will do the trick.
- Clean Up Waste: Remove bird droppings from hard surfaces. A hose with some mild disinfectant does the trick. Be sure to wear gloves!
- Wash Down the Area: A little bit of dish soap in warm water is usually enough for regular cleaning. You can also use a bird-safe disinfectant.
7. Hydration Station: Setting Up a Pigeon Birdbath
Just like us, pigeons need water! Providing a clean water source is a real draw, especially during warmer months or dry spells.
- Shallow Birdbath: A standing birdbath with wide ledges is perfect. They'll need somewhere to perch while they drink and take a bath. Make sure it’s not too deep, or smaller birds might struggle.
- Placement: Keep it at least 6 feet away from your house. You don't want them too close – plus, it reduces the risk of splashes against your walls.
- Regular Cleaning: Wash out the birdbath a couple of times a week and refill it with fresh water. Algae can build up quickly, especially in sunlight, so a regular scrub is essential.
8. Nesting Nicely: Creating a Pigeon Home
Want them to stick around for good? Offer them a place to nest.
- Nesting Shelf: Put up a simple nesting shelf out in the open, about 7 to 12 feet high. A repurposed wooden box can work well.
- No Nesting Material Needed: You don't have to put in any nesting material, unless the area is pretty bare. They'll often find their own twigs and leaves to line the nest.
- Variety: Some pigeons nest in winter, others at different times of the year. So, a sheltered nesting spot can encourage year-round residency.
9. Green is Good: Adding Some Pigeon-Friendly Landscaping
While pigeons don't need a jungle, they do appreciate a little bit of cover and perching opportunities.
- Plant Shrubs, Bushes, or Trees: A few strategically placed plants will provide hiding spots and nesting materials. Think about native species like hawthorn or elder.
- Prune Your Plants: Keep your plants accessible and tidy so pigeons aren't discouraged from visiting. Regular pruning also helps to prevent the build-up of pests and diseases.
- Gravel and Grit: Pigeons also need grit to help them digest their food. A small patch of gravel or sand will be greatly appreciated.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Feathered Friends!
So there you have it! A complete guide to attracting and keeping pigeons in your yard. Remember, it’s all about creating a welcoming environment with food, water, shelter, and a little bit of patience. Whether you're looking to simply observe these fascinating birds or create a thriving pigeon haven, these tips should get you started. Just remember to be mindful of your neighbours and local regulations. Happy pigeon-watching!