What happened to pigeons in Trafalgar Square?

‘They were mostly killed in the early days of the scheme, too. The pigeons were more reluctant to give up their feeding grounds. ‘But after about 18 months, they had become less reliant on Trafalgar Square and their numbers dwindled. Only two or three a year are killed now.

How did they get rid of all the pigeons in Trafalgar Square?

T he cost of flying a hawk to scare pigeons away from Trafalgar Square has soared to almost £60,000 a year. The bird of prey is flown daily for up to four hours as part of efforts introduced by former mayor Ken Livingstone to disperse birds he dubbed “flying rats”. This equates to £2,729 spent per dead bird.

When did they stop feeding pigeons in Trafalgar Square?

Mayor Ken Livingstone banned pigeon-feeding in Trafalgar Square in 2003.

Are the pigeons in Trafalgar Square wood pigeons?

The feral pigeon is the single most-spotted bird in London. They flock to the squares, scavenge the streets for food, and defecate on buildings. Their feathered cousin, the wood pigeon, is London’s most common garden bird. A turf war between the Mayor and Save the Trafalgar Square Pigeons ensued.

Can you feed the pigeons in Trafalgar Square?

Feeding pigeons is banned in the entire perimeter of Trafalgar Square. However, it is also forbidden in the area around St Martin-in-the-Fields church, the space directly in front of the National Gallery, Canada House, and South Africa House, and parts of The Mall, Charing Cross Road and Strand.

Why is there no pigeons in Trafalgar Square?

The group was formed in 2000 when Ken Livingstone, Mayor of London tried to reduce the number of pigeons in Trafalgar Square. These reductions were to be made by a number of techniques, including the removal of the Trafalgar Square bird food seller’s licence.

Can you still feed the pigeons in Trafalgar Square?

How can I stop my Neighbour from feeding pigeons?

You should contact the housing officer or Landlord to inquire. If your neighbour won’t stop or reduce the feeding, and you are having problems with pigeons perching or nesting on your property, you can contact a pest control company that specialises in birds.

Why is feeding pigeons illegal?

Many problems arise when neighbours overfeed birds, which can attract lots of pigeons. There are no laws the Council can use to stop people feeding birds. Excessive feeding can actually harm pigeons as it can cause overcrowding at feeding sites, and promote the spread of disease among birds.

How do I feed pigeons to my garden?

Feed Pigeons Separately Keep your pigeon feeder close to the ground as they prefer to feed at this height and fill it with food that pigeons will love. This includes bread, oatmeal and corn.

Is it legal to feed pigeons in London?

BBC NEWS | UK | England | London | Feeding Trafalgar’s pigeons illegal. Feeding Trafalgar Square’s numerous pigeons becomes illegal from Monday. People caught feeding the birds face possible prosecution and a £50 fine, under a new by-law.

How can I stop my neighbors from feeding birds?

A scarecrow or a silhouette of a hawk, owl or snake can do the trick. Monitor when your neighbor feeds the birds, and set out the decoys before the birds are fed. Set them in a different location every day so they stay effective and the birds don’t get used to them.