Pigeons love Melbourne’s apartment balconies, rooftops, solar panels, eaves and air-conditioning units. A couple of birds can quickly become a flock, leaving droppings, feathers, noise and nests behind. Here’s why pigeons choose your place and the bird control options that actually work.
Why pigeons are a problem
- Droppings: messy, smelly and acidic. They can stain and damage paint, stone, metal and solar panels.
- Health concerns: built-up droppings and nests can carry bacteria, fungi and mites, so they should be cleaned carefully.
- Blocked gutters and drains: nesting material and droppings can cause water damage.
- Noise: cooing and flapping early in the morning.
- Solar panels: birds nesting underneath can damage wiring and reduce performance.
Bird control options compared
| Option | Best for | How well it works |
|---|---|---|
| Bird netting | Balconies, courtyards, light wells | Very effective when installed properly |
| Bird spikes | Ledges, beams, signs, gutters | Effective on narrow landing spots |
| Solar panel mesh | Gaps under solar panels | Very effective at stopping nesting |
| Wire systems | Parapets, ridges, railings | Good for long, narrow ledges |
| Fake owls, reflectors, sounds | Short-term deterrent | Birds usually get used to them quickly |
Pigeons taking over your balcony or roof?
Tell us where they’re landing and nesting and we’ll give you a fixed price for bird-proofing.
What you can do right now
- Stop feeding them. Don’t feed birds, and clean up spilled pet food, bird seed and food scraps.
- Remove water sources like trays and buckets on balconies.
- Clean droppings safely: wear gloves and a mask, dampen droppings first so dust doesn’t spread, and bag the waste.
- Remove empty nests once you’re sure there are no eggs or chicks.
- Act early. Pigeons are loyal to good nesting sites, so it’s easier to stop them before they settle in.
Bird control for apartments and body corporates
In apartment buildings, balcony netting may need approval from your owners corporation. A whole-building plan is often more effective, because pigeons pushed off one balcony simply move to the next.
See our bird and pigeon control in Melbourne page, or read our earlier guide to safe and humane bird removal.
Frequently asked questions
Do fake owls keep pigeons away?
Usually only for a short time. Pigeons quickly learn the owl doesn’t move and come back. Physical barriers like netting and spikes work much better.
Is it legal to remove pigeon nests?
Feral pigeons are an introduced species, but most native birds are protected in Victoria. Check what bird you have, and avoid harming birds, eggs or chicks.
How do I stop pigeons nesting under my solar panels?
Fitting mesh around the edges of the panels stops birds getting underneath. Any existing nests and droppings should be removed first.
How much does pigeon control cost in Melbourne?
It depends on the area and the method, so we give a fixed quote. See our pest control cost guide for other prices.
