Is it allowed to kill pigeons with baking soda and is the home remedy even suitable for this? The German legislator has taken a clear position on this. Find out in the guide what you need to know about it and what the legal basis is.
How baking powder works
If baking soda gets into the digestive tract of pigeons, fermentation can occur in combination with water and acids. It is believed that this can cause the stomach to bloat so much that it bursts. The fact is that baking soda can be fatal to birds. But it should not be used because the law clearly prohibits the killing of pigeons and any infliction of suffering, whether fatal or not.
Note:
Baking soda is often used against ants. Combined with a little sugar, they quickly absorb it and die. This method is not prohibited by law, but it should still be questioned.
Killing pigeons: legal basis
The Animal Protection Act applies to the protection of vertebrates, which also include pigeons. In the case of an intentional killing of pigeons by private individuals, this provides for the following in accordance with paragraph 17:
People can expect a prison sentence of up to three years or a fine if they
- kill a vertebrate for no reason or for base reasons
- intentionally injuring or causing pain to a vertebrate
- cause long-term painful or recurring suffering or injury
Gentle expulsion methods as an alternative
Killing pigeons with baking powder or other substances is therefore not an option for getting rid of what are probably the most unpopular flying animals. Because violating them can also have criminal consequences, the only option is to drive them away using gentle methods.
Prevent nest building
From March onwards, the first species of pigeons are already laying eggs. To do this, they look for a suitable place in the woods, but also on wall projections or in facade grooves. They also sometimes lay their eggs on the bare ground, especially if it is full of pigeon droppings. In order to stop pigeons from nesting and drive them out of the garden or balcony, all potential nesting places must be blocked, existing nest buildings must be destroyed and any pigeon droppings removed.
Tip:
When cleaning pigeon droppings and removing nests, wear gloves and a mask as a precaution as parasites or pathogens may be present.
Set up moving elements
Pigeons are very attentive animals. They avoid the unknown, especially if it moves and/or is blinding. This can be used to gently scare away pigeons. For example, the following are suitable:
- Wind chimes and wheels
- ribbons fluttering in the wind
- displayed old CDs, aluminum foil and other shiny materials
Note:
Metallic, shiny materials that are used to reflect light can also blind road users and, in the worst case, cause serious car accidents. Therefore, pay close attention to whether aluminum & co. do not pose a danger to you or others.
Spreading animal hair
In the short term, pigeons can be gently driven away by animal hair from cats and dogs giving them an unpleasant smell and causing them to run away. However, pigeons are creatures of habit. So it may be that after the third or fourth approach attempt, the pigeons no longer perceive the smell strongly and it becomes ineffective.
Bird competition
Pigeons have a lot of respect for ravens. They don't get along particularly well, which is why pigeons avoid their black counterparts as much as possible. That's why dummy ravens on the edge of the pond, on the windowsill or in the flower pot work best to keep pigeons at a distance.
Frequently asked questions
How to remove pigeon droppings?
Pigeon droppings can be completely removed by mixing water and regular household vinegar in a ratio of 1:3. The liquid should be spread over the pigeon droppings and allowed to soak. Finally, the feces can be picked up with a rag or cloth and the area can be disinfected with the remaining vinegar mixture.
How dangerous are pigeons to human he alth?
Their he alth-endangering reputation is significantly worse than the actual prognosis. Pigeons can transmit diseases and parasites, but this usually only affects other pigeons and birds. In principle, pigeons are no more dangerous to human he alth than other wild and ornamental birds. An immediate he alth risk therefore under no circumstances justifies killing pigeons with baking powder or other means.
