Key Takeaways

• Pigeons in parks legislation is designed to regulate the behavior of both pigeons and people in public spaces.
• Legislation varies by country and region, but common regulations include restrictions on feeding pigeons, controlling their population, and maintaining sanitary conditions.
• Some laws protect homing pigeons used in military communication, while others aim to prevent the extinction of pigeon species like the passenger pigeon.

Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Pigeons

In the United States, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) of 1918 is a key piece of federal legislation that is relevant to pigeons. Enforced by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, this law makes it illegal to pursue, hunt, kill, capture, possess, buy, sell, trade, or transport any migratory bird, including pigeons, without proper permits.

Regulations on Feeding and Population Control

Many cities and municipalities have regulations specifically addressing the feeding of pigeons in parks and public areas. Feeding pigeons can attract large flocks, leading to issues such as excessive droppings, damage to property, and potential health hazards. These regulations aim to manage pigeon populations and maintain clean and sanitary conditions in public spaces.

Some cities, like New York City, have proposed amendments to park rules to prohibit the feeding of all animals, including pigeons, in areas under the jurisdiction of the Parks Department. This approach aims to discourage people from feeding pigeons by implementing uniform regulations.

To control the population of pigeons, some areas have implemented measures such as using pigeon birth control. A bird contraceptive called OvoControl is available that limits the growth of pigeon flocks. By providing the contraceptive in bird food, it helps to reduce pigeon reproduction without causing harm to the birds.

Protection of Homing Pigeons and Conservation Laws

Legislation has also been enacted to protect homing pigeons used in military communication. Worldwide legislation emerged during World War I and World War II to safeguard homing pigeons as valuable wartime assets. These laws prohibited entrapping, killing, or disturbing homing pigeons owned by the respective countries’ military forces.

In addition to protecting homing pigeons, laws related to the conservation of pigeon species have also been developed. The extinction of the passenger pigeon, once one of the most abundant bird species in North America, raised awareness about the need for wildlife conservation. Federal laws like the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Endangered Species Act were passed to protect migratory birds and endangered species, including pigeons, from extinction. These laws establish guidelines for the protection and management of bird populations.

It is important to note that legislation related to pigeons in parks can vary by country, state, or municipality. It is advisable to consult local regulations to understand the specific laws and regulations in a particular area.