EXCLUDING PIGEONS FROM BUILDINGS WITHOUT SPIKES, NETS, OR CHEMICALS
Applied Research
Ethan Orr
Tucson
Abstract
High numbers of pigeons on buildings can lead to disease concerns, damage to property, and a public nuisance. Urban environments increase the defensive space from predators and provide an abundance of food resources leading to overpopulation and increased disease risks for the human community. Pigeons are associated with many disease-causing pathogens, some of which pose a threat to people in Arizona. Individuals who are immunocompromised are especially vulnerable. It is estimated that pigeons also cause approximately $1.1 billion of damage every year in the United States. Numerous tactics including spikes, nets, lasers, chemicals, sound cannons, and other devices have been used to deter pigeons from public areas. However, pigeons habituate to some things and may be harmed by others. The ability to detect magnetic fields is a sense used by a wide array of animals to navigate. We investigated the use of a commercially available, constantly reversing-polarity electromagnetic field to create a pigeon exclusion zone. Pigeons were successfully repelled from a building with the device installed. Additional work is ongoing, investigating the effects on invertebrate organisms.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: Ethan Orr
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Orr, E. , University of Arizona Cooperative Extension, Arizona, 85721