If you find pigeons are a particular pest in your garden, there is one simple solution – and it involves the colour of flowers you plant, acting as a warning to the birds
You can deter pigeons from landing in your garden by taking a cue from colour psychology – of the avian kind.
Pigeons, or rock doves, are extremely adaptable birds that can make their home in various settings. Known for living in large groups, these birds breed throughout the year, favouring cliffs and similar structures for their nests. Their diet, primarily made up of seeds, grains, and other plant materials, often sees them scrounging around gardens for leftover food scraps.
While they may pose as pests, there’s a way to keep them at bay without them causing any damage, and you can continue enjoying their delightful chirping in peace. According to Sefton Meadows Garden Centre, planting flowers of a particular colour serves as a warning to pigeons. The garden centre revealed: “White is a ‘danger’ colour to birds, much in the same way that red is a warning colour to humans.
“Many birds use the white plumage in their feathers to show each other that there is danger ahead, so planting a variety of white flowers around areas you want to keep protected might be enough to stop pigeons from landing.”
Luckily, there’s an array of beautiful white flower varieties to choose from, and the experts even suggested a few of their favourites:
- White hydrangeas
- White roses
- White peonies
However, if you’re more drawn to colourful plants, just make sure to plant them in those areas that don’t require any pigeon protection, reports the Express.
Gardeners battling with pesky pigeons can take a leaf out of the expert’s book by planting white flowers or setting up fake predators to scare the birds away. Pigeons, like any creature, are naturally wary of their predators and will “stay well away” if they sense danger nearby. The presence of a cat or a larger bird in your garden means pigeons won’t risk a visit and “will fly away promptly”.
You can find statues of predatory birds such as hawks, eagles, and owls, as well as feline figures at most garden centres. Strategically placing one or two around your garden could be just the trick to keep the pigeons at bay.
Gardeners can pick up the Flying Hawk Garden Bird Deterrent from B&Q FOR £12.99 OR the Luminous Bird Repellent Hanging Eagle with Music Flying Bird Scarer Garden Decor for a cheaper price of £6.83 from eBay.
