Pigeons can be a real nuisance, leaving droppings everywhere and causing damage to property. Many people try ineffective methods like spikes, nets and repellents to try and deter pigeons, but these can be inhumane or simply chase the birds to a different location. A more effective and humane solution is to use ultrasonic devices that deter pigeons without harming them.
Ultrasonic pigeon deterrents work by emitting high frequency sounds that are disturbing and irritating to pigeons but inaudible to humans. The sounds overwhelm and disorient the pigeons, driving them away to find a more comfortable place to roost. With regular use, pigeons will avoid the area and no longer cause problems.
Ultrasonic devices are easy to install, safe for people and pets, and provide 24/7 protection. They are a cost-effective, long-term solution to keep unwanted pigeons away from your home or business.
How do ultrasonic pigeon deterrents work?
Pigeons have excellent low frequency hearing, but limited ability to hear higher pitched sounds above 20 kilohertz. Ultrasonic devices take advantage of this by emitting very high frequency sounds from 18 kilohertz up to 50 kilohertz. These sounds are inaudible to humans, who can typically only hear up to 20 kilohertz.
The high pitched ultrasonic sounds create an unpleasant environment that pigeons want to avoid. The noise disorients them and causes distress, immediately driving the birds away. With regular exposure, pigeons will associate the area with discomfort and seek alternative places to roost and nest.
The sound pressure and frequencies often sweep and alternate to maximize effectiveness. This prevents pigeons from becoming accustomed to one static sound. The random pulses continue disrupting the pigeons so the area remains inhospitable to them.
Types of ultrasonic pigeon deterrents
There are a few different types of ultrasonic pigeon control devices available:
Electronic repellers
These are small units that plug into an electrical outlet. They emit ultrasonic frequencies that sweep in random patterns to continually startle pigeons. The sounds cover areas of 500 to 1000 square feet. They are best suited for covered locations like porches, garages and patios.
Battery powered units
Battery operated units are available for deterring pigeons from outdoor areas. These portable devices have speakers that broadcast ultrasonic sounds up to 2500 square feet. The sounds alternate across multiple high frequency ranges. Being battery powered makes them convenient to place anywhere needed.
Solar powered deterrents
For large open spaces like warehouses, barns, hangars and stadiums, solar powered ultrasonic repellers are ideal. These sturdy weatherproof units charge by sunlight. At night, the built-in battery takes over, providing 24-hour protection. Solar models can cover areas up to 5000 square feet.
Plug-in repellers with motion sensor
These devices conserve power by remaining off until pigeons are detected. The motion sensor listens for pigeon coos and flapping wings. When triggered by pigeon presence, the unit emits disturbing ultrasonic noises to drive them away. These are good for porches, sheds, garages and other smaller areas.
Benefits of using an ultrasonic pigeon deterrent
Ultrasonic pigeon control offers a number of advantages:
Humane and safe
The sounds cause discomfort but will not physically harm the birds in any way. Ultrasonic deterrents are also safe for human ears, children, pets and other wildlife. They provide a humane way to discourage pigeons.
Non-toxic
There are no chemicals or poisons involved. This makes ultrasonic devices safe for use around food facilities, hospitals, schools and homes.
Cost-effective
Once installed, ultrasonic units provide continuous control without ongoing costs. They are economical compared to frequent power washing, spraying or trapping services.
Easy to use
Deterrents are very low maintenance. Battery and solar powered models only need occasional battery swaps. Electronic plugins simply need to be plugged in and left alone to do their work.
24/7 protection
Day and night, ultrasonic systems keep deterring birds. This constant harassment makes pigeons unwilling to return. Over time, they will look for new areas to roost.
Drive birds away without harm
Pigeons are prompted to freely choose to leave instead of risking injury or death from poison, traps, or spikes. An ultrasonic solution is more ethical than traditional pigeon control methods.
How to use ultrasonic pigeon deterrents effectively
Proper placement and coverage is important for success using ultrasonic devices. Here are some tips:
Determine area size
Measure the size of the area needing protection from pigeons. This could be a porch, balcony, rooftop, ledge, eave, sign, rafters or other problem spot. Know the square footage to choose a unit with adequate coverage.
Position above roosting sites
Mount the ultrasonic device above and angled down towards spots where pigeons currently nest, perch or congregate. Aim the sound waves over their roosts for best results.
Point towards landing surfaces
Also direct some coverage over surfaces where pigeons like to land such as rooflines, ledges, railings, wires, etc. Broadcasting ultrasonic noise over landing sites helps deter them from returning.
Cover all entry points
Make sure to cover any access points, holes or crevices where pigeons could sneak in. Deterring them from all possible entrances prevents reinfestation.
Use multiple units for large spaces
For big areas like warehouses or barns, use multiple ultrasonic repellers to overlap the coverage. This creates a larger zone of protection without any gaps for pigeons to enter unaffected.
Pair with other deterrents initially
For the first week or two, use visual deterrents like decoys, reflective tape or netting along with the ultrasonic device. The combined efforts will scare away stubborn pigeons still trying to roost.
Move devices if needed
Check for any signs of pigeons returning after a few weeks. If they come back, move the ultrasonic devices to create better coverage over their new attempted roosting spots.
Be patient
It can take 2-4 weeks of consistent ultrasonic harassment for pigeons to fully vacate the area. Avoid giving up too soon before the birds are completely gone. Persistence pays off.
Where to mount ultrasonic bird deterrents
Proper placement is crucial for driving away pigeons successfully. Here are some ideal locations:
Rooftops
Aim devices along the roofline, peaks, gables, gutters, chimneys, skylights and valleys where pigeons perch. Broadcasting over the entire surface will leave no quiet refuges.
Signs and beams
Deter pigeons from resting on signs, LED billboards, exposed beams and rafters by mounting units above the roosting areas.
Garages and carports
Use ultrasonic models made for interior spaces to keep pigeons away from garage door openings, interior rafters and vehicles.
Patios and courtyards
Mount waterproof models under eaves and pointed towards patio furniture, railings, plants and any ledges or wires where the birds like to frequent.
Gazebos and pavilions
Install units on the underside of the roof structure aiming down to cover seating and floor areas. This clears out pigeons from outdoor gathering spots.
Barns and warehouses
For large industrial buildings, arrange multiple ultrasonic devices throughout the interior perimeter to blanket the entire airspace with coverage. Point them towards beams, rafters and any roof openings.
Purchasing tips for ultrasonic pigeon deterrents
When shopping for an ultrasonic bird repeller, keep these factors in mind:
Coverage range
Choose a model that covers at least 1.5 times the size of the area needing protection. This ensures sufficient overlap to reach all spaces.
Frequency range
Units emitting sounds from 18 to 50 kilohertz tend to work best at aggravating pigeons while remaining inaudible to humans.
Automatic oscillation
Devices that automatically alternate across multiple frequencies are more effective than units with a fixed single tone.
Weather resistance
Outdoor models should have waterproof speakers and housings rated for rain, snow and sun exposure.
Motion activation
For interior spaces like garages, motion-activated units only emit noise when pigeons are detected to save energy.
Power source
Choose plugin, battery powered or solar models depending on the mounting location and availability of electrical outlets.
Warranty
Look for at least a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty. This ensures quality and performance.
Brand reputation
Buy from a trusted brand with a track record of effective bird control products. This indicates reliable, proven results.
Price
While more expensive units often have better coverage, reasonably priced quality ultrasonic deterrents are available in the $30 to $80 range.
Examples of effective ultrasonic pigeon deterrents
Here are a few top-rated ultrasonic devices for getting rid of pest birds:
BirdX YardGard Ultrasonic Yard Protector
- Covers up to 5,000 square feet
- Solar powered
- Weatherproofconstruction
- Adjustable sound emission
- Priced around $70
Bird B Gone MMT Ultrasonic Bird Repeller
- 360 degree sound protection
- Wall mount or stake mount
- Up to 5,000 square feet coverage
- Runs on batteries or AC power
- Available for under $40
Aspectek Ultrasonic Pest Repeller
- Plug-in indoor unit
- Auto cycling frequencies
- Up to 1200 square feet range
- LED light indicates operation
- Less than $30 per unit
There are also effective combination units available that add ultrasonic noise, flashing lights, predator sounds and physical motion to maximize bird repelling power. Though more expensive, these provide the strongest deterrent effect for difficult pigeon problems.
Safety tips when using ultrasonic devices
Ultrasonic pigeon deterrents are designed to be safe, but following some basic precautions will ensure proper and effective use:
- Read all manufacturer’s instructions carefully before installation
- Avoid direct contact with ears or eyes
- Do not touch the transducer and always keep units out of reach of children
- Use care when installing devices at elevated heights
- Make sure outdoor models are securely mounted and weatherproofed
- Plug in electronic models correctly using a GFCI outlet with no risk of water exposure
- Take care when changing batteries in battery powered units
- Point directional speakers towards pigeon inhabited areas, not human occupied zones
- Mount out of reach of people and pets to prevent tampering
- Inspect devices periodically to check condition and function
Following the guidelines provided with your ultrasonic deterrent will make sure it safely and effectively repels pest birds from the area.
Dealing with limitations of ultrasonic devices
While ultrasonic systems are effective bird control tools, they do have some limitations:
Small effective distance –
Sounds only travel moderate distances, so units must be moved over time as birds get accustomed and return.
Obstacles block sound waves –
Solid objects like walls, beams, and roofing materials can disrupt ultrasonic noise penetration allowing pigeons to find refuge. Strategic placement helps maximize coverage.
Birds may temporarily relocate –
Pigeons may at first simply move to a different part of the building exterior. Continued harassment is needed to drive them further away for good.
Requires electricity or battery replacement –
Electronic and battery powered models must be occasionally maintained to remain operational. Solar units avoid this issue.
Weather durability challenges –
Outdoor models must be weatherproofed and periodically inspected for damage to high frequency speakers.
No guarantee birds won’t return –
After a break, pigeons may attempt to reuse old roosts. Ultrasonic devices must remain in use to keep areas inhospitable.
Can attract bats or rodents –
The high frequency sounds may drive away birds but attract other unwanted pests to the area.
Knowing the limitations can help focus ultrasonic devices on the best applications and reinforce deterrents with other methods like netting or habitat modification. Overall ultrasonic systems remain an affordable, effective bird control option.
Combining ultrasonic units with other pigeon deterrents
For best results, ultrasonic devices often work well paired with other deterrents like:
Visual repellents
Adding devices like predator decoys, flashing lights, and reflective tape can enhance the harassment and scare effects on pigeons.
Physical barriers
Blocking off nesting and roosting spots with netting, hardware cloth, or sheet metal strips forces birds to find alternative sites.
Habitat modification
Removing food sources, water drips, plants, or other attractions makes the area less desirable for pigeons even without ultrasonic noise.
Roost-inhibiting materials
Applying sticky gels or spike strips on ledges makes roosting uncomfortable and discourages lingering.
Population reduction
Legal trapping or culling can decrease pigeon numbers and make ultrasonic devices more effective for the remaining birds.
Layering deterrents creates a multi-sensory offense forcing pigeons to flee and not return. Ultrasonic systems serve as the core pest control method supplemented by various additional deterrents for maximum impact.
Conclusion
Ultrasonic devices provide an affordable, humane way to rid areas of problematic pigeons through high frequency sound harassment. Their electronic noise is inaudible to humans while creating an intolerable environment that drives birds away for good. When used properly and moved occasionally, ultrasonic deterrents can eliminate pigeon issues from a home or business. Pairing ultrasonic systems with physical barriers, habitat modification and other deterrents enhances effectiveness to permanently repel the birds. Ultrasonic technology delivers safe, effective and lasting pigeon control.