Feral pigeons are among the most abundant urban birds globally, and their management raises welfare questions about lethal control versus humane coexistence strategies.
Feral pigeon welfare is frequently neglected because the species is common, associated with urban mess, and often regarded as pests. However, pigeons are sentient birds with social bonds, cognitive complexity, and individual welfare needs that deserve consideration. Lethal culling causes suffering to targeted birds and fails to provide lasting population reduction. Humane management through fertility control, habitat modification, and food source management achieves population goals without causing widespread suffering. Injured or sick pigeons have access to welfare under most jurisdictions, though they rarely receive care due to resource constraints.