To Cumberland Council, 

We heard some very sad news that Cumberland Council is going to cull the pigeons around a few local shops and parks. Unfortunately, Current Affairs stire up the situation against pigeons as always. They never make any program for pigeons, and they are always against pigeons. In the same program, we heard one of the councelor was talking to trap the pigeons as a solution!? 

Well, scientific research has proven, conclusively, that all lethal methods of pigeon control are totally ineffective in the medium and long-term reduction of pigeon numbers. In areas where lethal control operations have been carried out there will be seen to be an initial short-term reduction in numbers but, within a matter of weeks, pigeon numbers will have increased back to the pre-cull figure and in most cases will have exceeded it. This is because killing adult pigeons in a feeding flock favours younger birds that would otherwise have a poorer chance of survival. Many older non-breeding birds are removed during these culling operations, and the younger healthy breeding stock remains in site and thrives as a result. 

The facts demonstrate quite clearly that lethal control can not be seen as a viable method of reducing flock size under any circumstance, irrespective of the size or extent of the problem. Quite simply, it is a completely ineffective control option, whether provided as a stand-alone control or whether it is provided alongside the installation of deterrents and anti-roosting devices. Pigeons control their own numbers, and an adult pair of pigeons will usually breed 4-6 times a year. 

ALTERNATIVE SOLUTIONS: 

1. LIMIT FLOCK SIZE WITH PIGEON BIRTH CONTROL 

As year-round nesters, a pair of pigeons can raise a dozen or more young each year. If pigeons have plenty of food and space, their numbers can quickly increase. Fortunately, a bird contraceptive is available that limits the growth of pigeon flocks. 

One of the most effective ways to limit pigeon population growth is to use pigeon birth control. 

• Pigeon contraception comes in the form of a kibble-type food, which causes birds who eat it regularly to lay eggs that fail to develop. 

• Combined with exclusion and other humane measures to discourage roosting and nesting, “Birth control” effectively reduces hatching rates in pigeons, thereby limiting flock sizes and diminishing problems associated with large numbers of pigeons. 

• OvoControl P (Nicarbazin 0.5%) is a ready-to use bait that controls the reproduction of treated birds, causing the population to decline through a natural process of attrition. This effective and humane technology is especially useful for managing pigeon flocks in large areas without having to resort to poisons and their associated risks. 

• Nicarbazin is a non-toxic compound that is environmentally benign. Consuming it will not harm the pigeons besides making their eggs infertile. 

How does it work? 

Typically, it is administered by an automatic feeder, which is best placed on a rooftop, this sprinkles the food out every morning so that the pigeons get it into their system first thing for maximum effectiveness. Once the pigeons begin to eat the dispersed bait, it will interfere with egg hatchability. Since no new pigeons are hatching, there will be a 50% reduction in pigeon population per year, and the ending flock should be between 5-10% of the starting numbers. 

Where to install feeders? 

Designed for use in urban areas with high pigeon populations and buildings that attract large flocks, which is best placed on a rooftop. OvoControl is a modern, intelligent alternative to reducing the Pigeon population. 

Ovocontrol is suitable for medium to heavy populations of birds. 

1. USE FEEDERS 

The biggest mistake that councils do is to get rid of the feeders by putting signs and giving fines to them. Have you ever thought that they can be the ones who can feed OvoControl to pigeons? Yes, you heard it right! They are still considered public and have the right to enjoy spending time with birds in the parks. You can install Vending machines to sell OvoControl products in a small to medium size bags to feeders and let people know what's the purpose of these food and the aim is to decline pigeons populations humanely without hurting them. By this method, feeders will be satisfied, Cumberland Council can make money of selling Ovocontrol and pigeons populations get undercontrol.  

CASE STUDY  

I also want to grab your attention to the same issue in Port Pirie, South Australia which they end up in using OvoControl after 18 months of culling 23,000 pigeons without any results (Port Pirie, SA- 15.05.25- Advertiser). 
Please don't follow their steps, culling pigeonsis cruel and ineffective. Pigeons are part of our city, regardless of loving them or hating them.  

In the end, I need to mention that pigeons have a remarkable history of service, particularly during wartime. During World War I and World War II, pigeons played a crucial role in military communications. Australia alone used approximately 13,500 pigeons annually to carry vital messages. These birds, often referred to as war pigeons, saved countless lives through their loyalty and perseverance. More than 500,000 pigeons were used globally during the wars, delivering critical information across enemy lines. Their contributions are an important part of our history, and they should be remembered and respected for their service and the intelligent and loyal animal they are. Despite this, pigeons are often subjected to cruelty, disrespected, and harmed by people.