Urban pigeons are often targeted with inhumane control methods - evidence shows humane management through contraception and habitat modification is more effective and welfare-positive.
Urban pigeon welfare is often neglected because pigeons are considered pest species. However, they are intelligent birds with complex social bonds and pair fidelity. Inhumane control methods - glue traps, poisoning, and spiking that causes wing impalement - cause significant suffering without effectively solving population problems. Contraceptive bait programmes, combined with feeding restriction and habitat modification, achieve population stabilisation more effectively and without welfare cost. Pest control decisions that incorporate welfare criteria produce better long-term outcomes for both humans and birds.