Hawk Swoops

Published in the CityWest Homes Newsletter

We're using birds of prey to control problem pigeons.

A falconry service run by expert David Van Vynck supplies specially trained sparrow hawks which target the pigeons and scare them away from the estates.

If the scheme is used regularly, the pigeons begin to link the estates with the threat of the hawks and steer clear of the area.

This natural deterrent has been used on the Churchill Gardens and Lisson Green estates and has shown some good results.

When used at Trafalgar Square, hawks deterred thousands of disease carrying pigeons, cutting the numbers from 5,000 to just 150.

Handlers and their hawks undergo and intensive training regime before being let loose on estates.

"Many people believe falconry is more humane than culling by shooting or trapping." said David.

And he warned that the summer can see the arrival of even more unwanted visitors - gulls, the fastest growing urban pest among birds. During the summer months they are breeding which makes them aggressive when coming into contact with people.

CityWest Relationships Manager Jon Lock said: "The problem of pigeons on estates is raised time and again with us and we're looking at the most effective ways of tackling this. Our work with David has been very encouraging."

Experts reckon the feral pigeon carries more diseases than the common brown rat and is capable of passing on around 40 diseases to humans.

CityWest bosses are urging residents to do their bit to help control birds from becoming pests. With the onset of summer more people will be eating outside and leaving food which attracts the birds.

Remember to take any left overs home and dispose of them responsibly. And please, don't put food out for the birds.

If pigeons are a problem at your premises please take a look at our bird control section.