Feral pigeon’s are really filthy creatures so as a matter of interest I thought I would give you an insight of what to expect when faced with a roof void that has suffered a long term infestation of unchecked feral pigeons. Here are some of the findings of what is now quite a common situation:-

• The birds had been using the roof for at least twelve years (nearer fifteen if the truth were known)
• Forty plus birds were in residence at any one time.
• Total number of skeletal carcases found at the time of clearance. . twelve!
• Total number of un-hatched eggs. . .twenty eight!
• Number of current nests. . .eleven!
• Average number of inches of guano between joists (depth). . . four!
• Weight of bird waste (guano/nests etc) removed on the day. . . quarter of a ton!
• Really nasty pathogens and diseases found in this kind of environment. . .  at least fifteen!
• Man hours to clear including a bird cull and proof repairs.(60 sq ft) . . . nineteen!
• Mealworm beetle larvae present. . about fifteen . . . thousand! !

A feral pigeon roost in a roof void is a lethal place to go... without the right personal protective equipment (PPE) that is! Pathogens and diseases are rife here!

So to be on the safe side always store dry pet food in airtight containers (stores in smells and keeps food fresh) and never leave uneaten food out in bowls for pets to pick at.

Remember! If rodents can’t smell it. . .they wont challenge the building to get to it!

2. Never attempt to treat a wasp nest without adequate personal protection.

3. Never attempt to treat a wasp nest unless you are 100% sure your chosen means of attack treatment is capable of dealing with the size of nest in question.

4. Never attempt treating wasp nests from inside a loft or roof space without completing a suitable risk assessment. Roof voids or lofts can present all sorts of additional hazards. Falling through the ceiling being just one of them!

5. Never attempt treating a wasp nest from a ladder without being suitably equipped and prepared. Always seek assistance from a friend or neighbour and ensure they too are suitably protected.

6. Never attempt to treat a wasp nest during the hours of daylight

7. Never attempt to treat a wasp problem of any sort if it is likely to put others in danger

8. Never attempt a wasp treatment if you are susceptible to severe reaction to wasp stings or anaphylactic shock.

9. Never, ever block off the entrance to a wasp nest, especially in the home as this could have disastrous if not fatal results.

10. Never compromise safety. If in doubt call a professional with all the training, expertise and safety procedures in place. Get the job done well but above all get the job done safely.