Take
Action!
Education changes perception.
- Share research-backed facts
- Correct misinformation respectfully
- Support organizations advocating for humane treatment
Local policy decisions determine how pigeons are treated in cities. When public perception frames them as “pests,” municipalities often respond with lethal eradication efforts that are ineffective, short-term, and inhumane.
Humane, research-based wildlife management approaches exist. Public engagement can influence whether cities adopt ethical, evidence-driven solutions.
Consider contacting your city council members or local representatives to:
- Oppose inhumane eradication and poisoning measures
- Support humane, science-based wildlife management programs
- Encourage public education initiatives grounded in accurate information
Policy change begins with informed constituents.
Follow reputable animal protection and wildlife advocacy organizations for research updates, policy alerts, and opportunities to participate in petitions or public comment periods. Monitor urban wildlife policies in your community and engage respectfully when humane treatment measures are under review.
Established organizations working in wildlife and urban animal policy include:
- American Bird Conservancy (ABC) – Bird conservation science and coexistence guidance
https://abcbirds.org - National Wildlife Federation (NWF) – Education and advocacy on living responsibly with wildlife
https://www.nwf.org - The Wildlife Society – Research-based best practices in wildlife management
https://wildlife.org - Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) – Urban wildlife policy and humane management resources
https://www.humanesociety.org
If no advocacy efforts exist locally, consider organizing responsibly — such as drafting a well-researched petition, contacting local officials, or collaborating with established organizations to amplify impact.
If you see a pigeon that appears injured, lethargic, unable to fly, or in immediate danger (such as near traffic), and if safe to do so, secure the bird (briefly) by moving it to a safer location or placing it in a ventilated box, then contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
Baby pigeons, called squabs, are rarely seen outside the nest. If you encounter a very young, fluffy (or not yet fully feathered) pigeon on the ground, it may have fallen from a nesting site and likely needs assistance — they will not survive on their own.
Avoid attempting long-term care unless advised by a licensed professional.
Securing the Pigeon (Temporary Care)
If safe to do so, place the bird in a ventilated box in a quiet, dark space until professional help is available:
- Approach slowly and calmly
- Gently cover the bird with a towel or cloth
- Support the body with both hands, keeping the wings folded
- Avoid squeezing or excessive handling
- Keep the box warm, quiet, and undisturbed
- Wash your hands after handling (and use gloves if available); pigeons pose very low disease risk to humans, and transmission is rare and typically associated with prolonged or extreme exposure, but basic hygiene is still recommended when handling any animal.
* Do not feed or give water unless instructed by a licensed rehabilitator, as it can cause harm and interfere with proper care.
Finding a Rehabilitator
- Visit Animal Help Now (AHNow): https://ahnow.org
- Explore the National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association (NWRA) map and guidance: https://www.nwrawildlife.org/page/Found_Injured_Wildlife
- Check your state wildlife agency’s website
- Search “wildlife rehabilitator near me”
- Contact local rescues, bird sanctuaries, or veterinary offices for guidance