Pigeons are a common sight in cities and towns across the world. Many people enjoy feeding pigeons in public spaces like parks and plazas. However, in some places, feeding pigeons is actually prohibited by law. So is feeding pigeons illegal? The answer depends on where you live.
Quick Answers
In many cities and towns in the United States, Canada, the UK, and other countries, there are laws prohibiting or restricting the feeding of pigeons in public spaces. However, these laws vary significantly between different jurisdictions. In some places, feeding pigeons is completely banned. In others, it is only illegal to feed flocks over a certain size. Some places have no laws about feeding pigeons at all. So whether or not feeding pigeons is illegal depends entirely on the local laws where you live.
Why Do Cities Ban Feeding Pigeons?
There are a few main reasons why many cities have enacted laws banning or restricting people from feeding pigeons:
- Pigeon overpopulation – When people feed pigeons frequently, it can lead to a rapid increase in the pigeon population. This creates problems like noise, droppings, and health hazards.
- Property damage – Pigeon droppings are acidic and can damage buildings, statues, cars, and other property. Cities want to limit this damage.
- Health concerns – Large amounts of pigeon droppings can spread diseases. Cities want to prevent public health issues.
- Nuisance – Some people view flocking pigeons as a nuisance and cities want to limit disturbances in public spaces.
So by enacting anti-feeding laws, cities aim to control pigeon population growth and associated problems like property damage, health hazards, and nuisance.
Examples of Cities Where Feeding Pigeons is Illegal
Here are some examples of major cities where feeding pigeons in public spaces has been made illegal:
New York City
In New York City, feeding pigeons on streets and sidewalks has been banned since 2007. The ban was enacted under Mayor Michael Bloomberg to address the growing nuisance of pigeon overpopulation. Anyone caught feeding pigeons can face a $50 fine.
London
Feeding pigeons is banned across the entire Greater London region under a by-law enacted in 2003. Anyone caught feeding pigeons in a public space can face a fine of up to £500.
Venice
Venice, Italy imposed a city-wide ban on feeding pigeons in 2008. Fines for feeding the pigeons can be as high as €700. The law aims to protect buildings and transportation from damage and disease caused by excessive bird droppings.
Singapore
In Singapore, feeding pigeons was banned in 1970 under the Animals and Birds Act. Anyone caught feeding the birds can face a fine of up to $500.
Sydney
Feeding pigeons is banned in Sydney’s main business district and other specific zones like The Rocks heritage area. Fines for feeding the birds start at A$750.
Cities Where Feeding Pigeons is Legal
While many major cities worldwide have banned or restricted feeding pigeons, it remains perfectly legal in some places. Here are a few examples of major cities where feeding pigeons is still allowed:
Paris
There is no law prohibiting feeding pigeons in public areas in Paris. Feeding the pigeons remains a popular activity, especially in iconic spots like the Louvre Pyramid and Notre Dame Cathedral.
Rome
Like Paris, feeding pigeons is still legal and commonly practiced at landmarks like the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy.
Prague
Prague, Czechia has no anti-feeding laws. Visitors often buy bird feed to offer the pigeons in Old Town Square in front of the famous Tyn Church.
Vancouver
There are no city-wide bans on feeding pigeons in Vancouver, Canada. Feeding the birds remains a common activity in downtown parks like Harbour Green Park.
General Guidelines for Feeding Pigeons
When feeding pigeons, following some basic etiquette guidelines can help avoid problems:
- Avoid excess – Only use small amounts of birdseed. Don’t dump large piles of seed or breadcrumbs.
- Think of others – Don’t leave mess from feed. Clean up any spilled feed.
- Give space – Allow room for pedestrians to pass on sidewalks and paths.
- Follow rules – Obey any posted signs prohibiting or restricting feeding.
- Use proper feed – Seeds or chopped lettuce are healthier than bread.
- Watch children – Keep young kids supervised when feeding birds.
Using common courtesy helps make feeding pigeons a fun activity that avoids negatively impacting others in public spaces.
What Kinds of Food Should You Avoid Feeding Pigeons?
It’s best to avoid feeding pigeons:
- Moldy bread – Can cause digestive issues in birds.
- Salty foods – Like chips, popcorn, pretzels, etc.
- Sugary foods – Can be unhealthy if eaten in excess.
- Avocado – Contains persin toxin dangerous to birds.
- Dried beans or peas – Can cause crop swelling issues.
- Apple seeds – Contain trace cyanide, should be avoided.
Pigeons do best on a healthy diet of birdseed mixes, chopped lettuce, oats, wheat, and other grains. It’s typically best to avoid “people food” when feeding them.
What Are the Fines for Feeding Pigeons?
In places where feeding pigeons is prohibited, the exact fines and penalties vary between different cities and countries. But some examples of fines for illegal feeding of pigeons include:
- New York City – Up to $50 fine
- London – Up to £500 fine
- Venice – Up to €700 fine
- Singapore – Up to $500 fine
- Sydney – Minimum A$750 fine
In some cities, like New York, fines and prohibitions often apply only to feeding flocks of pigeons above a certain number, like 25 birds. Fines are typically levied as civil penalties or citations rather than criminal charges.
Leading Cities for Feeding Pigeons
While many cities worldwide ban feeding pigeons, some urban areas famous for their pigeon populations continue to allow it. Here are five top cities for legally feeding flocks of urban pigeons:
| City | Popular Feeding Spots |
|---|---|
| Paris | Louvre Pyramid, Pont des Arts bridge |
| Rome | Piazza di Spagna, Piazza Navona |
| Prague | Old Town Square, Charles Bridge |
| Mumbai | Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus |
| Istanbul | Sultan Ahmed Mosque, Galata Tower |
In these pigeon-friendly cities, feeding flocks of urban pigeons remains a popular activity for both residents and tourists alike.
Should Feeding Pigeons Be Banned?
There are good arguments on both sides of whether cities should prohibit people from feeding pigeons in public spaces:
Arguments for Banning Feeding
- Prevents overpopulation and swarming of birds
- Reduces property damage from droppings
- Improves public health and sanitation
- Forces pigeons to forage naturally for food
- Discourages dependence on humans for food
Arguments Against Banning Feeding
- Difficult for authorities to enforce
- Hard to change public behavior and perception
- Unlikely to completely eradicate pigeon overpopulation
- Pigeons may still flock whether fed or not
- Punishes animal lovers wishing no harm
Public opinion remains split on whether pigeon feeding bans are reasonable laws or undue restrictions on interactions with urban wildlife.
Conclusion
Laws and norms about feeding pigeons vary tremendously depending on the city and country. While many places worldwide ban feeding birds in public areas, some cities still allow and embrace the activity. Those wanting to feed pigeons should research local laws and be careful not to disturb others or damage property. With some etiquette and common sense, feeding pigeons can still be enjoyed legally even in places with restrictions. But hygiene and moderation should always be priorities when providing food to urban birds.
