known by most people as
- rats with wings
- sky rats
- gutter birds
- flying ashtrays
pigeons must be one of the
most unloved birds around!
Pigeons are seen as the disease-ridden source of myriad droppings.
But for years pigeons were viewed as a huge asset to man, with lives depending on them during the wars.
In ancient times they were revered as companions and they were
extensively studied by Charles Darwin for his theory of evolution. In
both world wars they were used to carry vital communications and have
been credited with saving thousands of lives and honoured by the
military.
We share the UK with an estimated 18 million feral
pigeons and they can breed up to up to six times a year. They are one of
the few birds recognised by the government as a nuisance pest and can
be controlled using humane methods and with a licence.
But when it comes to hating pigeons, the focus of most
people's dislike is the feral pigeon. It is a domesticated rock dove
that has returned to wild or semi-wild conditions. It is usually grey
and can be seen in most villages, towns and cities across the UK - and
Europe.
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Ornithophobia- is the Fear of birds, walking through town on a recent visit i realised that many people dodged pigeons even when they are on the ground, innocently feeding. They are quite intimidating especially when they swoop down low in flight.