Uncovered: Pigeon Infestation in Vienna is Just a Myth

According to estimates by the Wildlife Service Vienna, there are currently between 50,000 and 60,000 city pigeons living throughout the city area – which corresponds to about one pigeon per 50 inhabitants.

Animal Protection Austria, which supported the voluntary survey team, emphasizes the scientific basis of the count: Since 2021, a corresponding research project has been underway, analyzing the lifestyle, health status, and movement patterns of the animals.

Criticism from Animal Protection Austria: City Pigeons Unjustly Demonized

The president of Animal Protection Austria, Madeleine Petrovic, sharply criticizes the public portrayal of the pigeon issue. "This year's count once again confirms that the calls of a pigeon plague in Vienna are just scaremongering," said Petrovic. Proven, animal welfare-compliant solutions are needed instead of blanket rejection.

The animal protection organization points out that city pigeons are direct descendants of domesticated rock pigeons and have lived in close relationship with humans for centuries. Today, however, they are often rejected – and suffer from rigid deterrent measures such as pigeon deterrent spikes.

Modern Pigeon Management Demanded in Vienna

Animal Protection Austria is particularly critical of the widespread use of spikes on buildings. These cause suffering, worsen the cityscape, and lead to additional effort for animal protection associations. "Only the uninformed continue to spread baseless panic," emphasizes Petrovic.

Instead, the organization calls for a scientifically supervised, city-wide pigeon management. This should include the following measures:

Animal Protection Austria calls on city politics to respond to the available data and finally implement animal welfare-compliant, modern measures across the board. The organization emphasizes: Peaceful coexistence between humans and pigeons is possible – if actions are taken rationally rather than emotionally.

(Red)

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