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25 November 2024 - Case studies
The Craigavon Bridge spans 275 meters over the River Foyle in Derry, Northern Ireland. For many years, pigeons had nested and perched on the bridge’s structure.
The pigeons were contaminating the pedestrian walkway, creating a slipping hazard on Craigavon Bridge. Not only were the droppings unsightly, but they also posed a danger to pedestrians and cyclists. One cyclist, after falling from his bike, broke his arm.
Pigeon infestations are a common issue in urban areas, especially on structures like bridges and historic buildings, where the birds find refuge for nesting and roosting. These birds not only mar the aesthetic appearance of structures with their droppings, but the accumulated waste can quickly cause surface damage. Pigeon droppings, being acidic and corrosive, can erode building materials over time.
After numerous complaints about the pigeon droppings, the Northern Ireland Department of Infrastructure had to implement preventive measures. Additionally, since the bridge is a protected heritage site, the solution needed to be discreet and non-invasive.
The department had previously installed nets and spikes on the bridge, but these failed to prevent the pigeons from nesting and perching. Eradicating a pigeon infestation is particularly challenging due to the birds’ adaptability and their tendency to return to familiar nesting sites.
In July 2022, cleaning and pest control work began. A total of 13,000 Bird Free trays were installed along the 275-meter span of the Craigavon Bridge and on all surfaces where pigeons previously perched and nested.
In June 2024, we interviewed Martin Reilly, a councilor and former mayor of Derry, who had been campaigning for years to eradicate the pigeon infestation. In the interview, Martin Reilly confirmed the effectiveness of the Bird Free program on Craigavon Bridge.
Listen to the interview to learn how Bird Free™ successfully eliminated a persistent pigeon problem.