THE FACTS ABOUT FERAL PIGEONS
From Duncan MacGregor
It's a common belief among the non-pigeon flying public that all pigeons are the same. This couldn't be further from the truth. Feral pigeons are those that we see around the parks and buildings throughout the world trying to eke out a feed from scraps, bins and most of all from well meaning but ill informed passers-by. Most of these birds are born in the wild although some are formally domesticated birds that, for whatever reason have taken to the wild.
The feral birds normally have an oilier appearance, and generally look much weaker and smaller than their thoroughbred cousins, nor do they appear as bright in the feather or as healthy as the wild dove or the wood pigeons that we see in the more rural areas. They have variously been described, but most commonly as the 'rats of the sky,' due in no small part to the fact that they carry a variety of diseases and parasites that are not only harmful to both native and domestic birds but more importantly HUMANS. Diseases that can affect the heart, lungs and respiratory areas are commonplace along with various parasites, worms, lice etc.
Health Departments, Councils, Businesses and more importantly responsible pigeon fanciers recognise that with the ever increasing numbers of these birds something must be done to eradicate their presence and therefore prevent any further risk. Should you have a problem your local council or a quick read of the pest eradication section in the phone book can put you in contact with a professional that can remove these birds.
One such professional is Merv CROFTS of
DON'T BE FOOLED FERALS CREATE REAL PROBLEMS