Some people are lucky enough to have rooftop access for gardening, star gazing, watching city lights or whatever you like. Rooftops have tons of potential, except that pigeons can be a serious problem.

No one wants to tend a rooftop garden or host a moonlit rooftop dinner with pigeon droppings everywhere. What can you do about those messy pigeons? Of course, the best and most effective options is to contact a pigeon control specialist, but if you would like to try some "do it yourself" methods first, we have five tips for you to try!

Tip 1: Bird spikes

Perhaps the most popular options, bird spikes are sharp spikes that can be places in areas where pigeons loaf (loafing is when the pigeons rest on a ledge or a sign and look for food during the day). Though they may look dangerous and inhumane, they are perfectly safe. These spikes do not actually hurt the pigeons. They only prevent them from landing, therefore preventing them from loafing. Bird spikes can be purchased in hardware stores, or you can make them yourself with nails hammered through a piece of wood. Because of the possible danger, be sure not to put them in places where children may touch them.

Tip 2: Use string

Buy some weatherproof string and suspend it between two posts that are on opposite ends of where pigeons are likely to loaf. Be sure the string is taut enough that it will not dip under the weight of a bird. This super simple method will prevent pigeons from landing. If they can't land, they cannot--you guessed it--loaf.

Tip 3: Wire mesh

If you have small, cozy spaces (like vents) where pigeons are likely to nest, cover them up with wire mesh. Be sure to secure them with nails.

Tip 4: Reduce/eliminate food sources

Obviously, pigeons (and all other animals) love to eat, so being sure to remove food sources (trash cans, etc.) can make the location less appealing to pigeons. If they can't find much to eat, there is a good chance they will move on and look for another place to loaf.

Tip 5: Netting for nesting areas

Pigeon nesting areas always have cover. The only way to get rid of the nesting sites is full decontamination of all droppings and netting or screening off the entire area.

If you have tried all these things with no luck (or simply don't feel like being bothered), your best bet is to contact a pigeon control specialist. For a reasonable fee, you can relax while they do all the work and you reap the benefits. Considering the money you may waste on DIY solutions, you may actually save money by going with a professional from the beginning. Choose the choice you feel most comfortable with.