Port Pirie Regional Council to Tackle Pigeon Problem with Additional Measures
Port Pirie Regional Council is actively seeking more effective solutions to combat pigeon overpopulation in the Port Pirie CBD area.
Port Pirie Regional Council understands the frustration of residents and shop owners and wants to reassure the community that Council is listening and taking action. Council’s goal is to achieve long-term, ethical and responsible population control of pigeons that supports both public health and local businesses.
The response requires collaboration across local businesses, neighbouring councils, and State Government, especially at a time when many in our community are already under significant economic and cost-of-living pressures.
This issue not only affects private and public infrastructure, but also has potential public health implications. As such, the urgency for a responsible and effective course of action is increasing.
Current methods have not been effective in reducing pigeon numbers to the required degree, and it has become clear that a more coordinated strategic, science-based solution is necessary. Council is now exploring alternative measures including the possibility of sterilisation, using a treatment called OvoControlP.
This treatment interferes with the pigeons' reproductive cycle during mating periods, reducing the number of hatched eggs. OvoControlP is already used in the US and Europe as a non-lethal way to tackle pigeon overpopulation. The treatment specifically targets pigeons and is recommended by animal welfare advocates as best practice.
Luigi Mesisca, Director of Corporate and Community at Port Pirie Regional Council, commented on the issue during an interview with ABC Radio:
"There is a pigeon problem and it has been for a while, not just isolated to the region. It is something that is impacting community infrastructure, private infrastructure and it’s important that we tackle the problem to deal with the infrastructure issues that it’s causing, potential health issues and with a humane science-backed solution to meet the community needs."
"The issue is that droppings from the pigeons can cause significant issues to buildings, not just aesthetically, but also potentially a health impact to humans as well. We know that pigeons are incredibly intelligent animals and can find their way into buildings despite efforts to cover up spaces and put nets around buildings. The current method alone has not diminished the issue, so the solution needs to be multifaceted and involve local businesses, residents, and governments alike," Mr Mesisca said.
Residents and business owners can also assist to combat pigeon overpopulation in the following ways:
- Not Feeding Pigeons: Avoid feeding pigeons to reduce their food supply.
- Proper Waste Disposal: Ensure that garbage is securely disposed of to prevent pigeons from accessing food.
- Reporting Issues: Notify Council of any significant pigeon infestations or nesting sites.
Additional details on the expanded pigeon management measures will be shared with the community in the near future.