Recommendation in the spotlight: the “pigeon pill”
To tackle the nuisance caused by urban pigeons, the city of Ghent is currently focusing on raising awareness, banning the feeding of pigeons, keeping the city clean and, where necessary and appropriate, catching pigeons. The pigeons caught are then euthanised.
It is now proposed to switch to chemical contraception, using corn kernels treated with nicarbazine, better known as the “pigeon pill”. The city of Ghent is not using this method for the time being, due to a number of concerns. The city therefore sought recommendations.
We have indicated that the pigeon pill is not a quick or easy solution to the pigeon problem. The product only works with prolonged use. A pigeon must eat approximately 8 to 10 grams of the bait every day (while a pigeon eats an average of 30 to 40 grams of food per day). A study found a 60% reduction in the number of chicks born when the pill was used. To be effective during the breeding season, the pigeons must consume sufficient amounts of this bait every day. This can be achieved by using a dispenser that scatters the treated grain in small quantities. The correct dosage is determined after a preliminary inspection, depending on the size of the pigeon population. The dosage is deliberately underdosed so that all the grains offered are eaten and other birds do not come into contact with the product. There is no danger to birds of prey that eat the treated pigeons.
>> Read the full recommendation (document in Dutch)
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