Feral pigeons in cities are often considered pests, but lethal control is ineffective and humane alternatives offer better long-term population management.
Pigeons caught in pest control operations may experience drowning, poisoning, or shooting that does not guarantee immediate death. Contraceptive bait programs avoid welfare harms of lethal control while achieving population reduction over multiple breeding seasons. Spikes and netting used to exclude pigeons from buildings can trap and injure birds if not properly maintained. The most welfare-positive approach to urban pigeon management combines habitat modification with fertility control.