Commission's Approval on July 9th.
The city of Mönchengladbach, Germany, has announced the implementation of an animal-friendly pigeon management system, aimed at addressing the growing issue of urban pigeons while ensuring the welfare of these birds.
While specific details about the program's timeline, implementation options, and cost-effective solutions are yet to be determined, city officials have confirmed that the management will focus on non-lethal, humane methods such as habitat modification, controlled feeding policies, and fertility control.
Gisela Heynert, a local resident, has been spearheading the project for a year and has recently had her application for a municipal pigeon management accepted by majority vote. She has received professional support from various animal welfare organisations, including the German Animal Welfare Association, the Federal Association of People for Animal Rights, the Erna-Graff Foundation, and an employee of the Berlin State Animal Welfare Officer.
The pigeon management system in Mönchengladbach is considered a "win-win situation," offering benefits such as cleanliness, reduced cleaning and repellent costs, less workload for private individuals and authorities, and the welfare of the city pigeons.
The number of pigeons in certain areas of the city, including Minto and Haus Westland, Rheydter Markt and Harmonieplatz, and Bahnhofstraße, is estimated to be approximately 1,500. To address this, Gisela Heynert has proposed resettlement of the pigeons according to the Augsburg model as a long-term solution.
In the meantime, the development of the city pigeon management will be based on established concepts and models from other cities. Gisela Heynert has suggested using part of the upper floors of properties, such as the Karstadt building, for pigeon accommodations as a cost-effective option.
For those interested in volunteering for the city pigeon management, further opportunities can be found by contacting the city via email at [email protected].
Gisela Heynert expressed her excitement about the implementation of the pigeon management system in Mönchengladbach, stating, "I am thrilled about the opportunity to make a difference for our city's pigeons and its residents."
The new pigeon management system in Mönchengladbach could potentially bring a positive change to the city's home-and-garden lifestyle, as it aims to provide cleaner environments for residents while ensuring the welfare of urban pigeons. Moreover, the development of this system could expand to include pet-friendly habits, as professionals from animal welfare organizations offer guidance and support.
