Do you have systems to keep pigeons away?
pic-CHO-ni — three syllables; 'cc' before 'io' gives a 'ch' sound.
Use this in Italian cities, where pigeon infestations on balconies, window sills, and roofs are a major and nearly universal problem. Ferramenta stock a range of deterrents for this very Italian urban challenge.
Piccioni (pigeons) cause structural damage and hygiene problems on Italian buildings. Ferramenta sell spike strips (dissuasori a spikes or punte antiposatura), anti-pigeon netting (reti antipiccioni), and gel repellents (gel repellenti). Spikes and netting are the most effective long-term solutions. Gel repellents are less effective and require frequent reapplication.
Punte antiposatura in acciaio per il davanzale.
Steel anti-perch spikes for the window sill.
Dissuasori a spike are the most effective and durable; stainless steel versions last indefinitely.
Rete antipiccione per il balcone.
Anti-pigeon netting for the balcony.
Netting completely blocks access; must be properly anchored to be effective.
Gel repellente per piccioni, si applica con la pistola.
Pigeon repellent gel, applied with a caulking gun.
Less effective than physical deterrents but useful in areas where spikes cannot be fixed.
The piccione (pigeon) is one of Italy's most controversial urban residents. Italian cities have large feral pigeon populations — Rome alone has an estimated 150,000-200,000 pigeons. Feeding pigeons is illegal in some Italian cities (including Venice, which fined tourists for feeding them in Piazza San Marco). The conflict between pigeon lovers and those suffering property damage from droppings is a recurring feature of Italian condominium life.