The fact is that pigeons are overlooked in our society. Many of them end their lives even though they could be saved with help.
Thank you to you who are reading the following lines. That already makes you one more person aware that pigeons need help too.
But how can you recognize when a pigeon needs help?
Here are a few guidelines you can follow. Especially now in winter, pigeons are particularly vulnerable.
*** Pigeons stay in flocks. If you notice a pigeon that is alone, crouching somewhere in a corner or on the ground by a wall, it definitely has a problem. Most likely, the other pigeons have already excluded it from the flock because it is sick and weak, or it is exhausted (illness, injury, hunger) and can no longer keep up.
*** If you approach a pigeon within less than 1 meter and it does not move or even try to fly away, it needs help.
*** Pigeons retreat to their “shelters” when it starts getting dark, as they cannot see in the dark. If you notice a pigeon out in the open when it is already dark, it needs help.
*** Pigeons sleep somewhere elevated—on buildings, roofs, ledges, signs, fences, pipes, gutters, etc.—not on the ground. If you see one sleeping on the ground, especially at night, it definitely needs help.
*** Pigeons also feel the cold. They can freeze just like we do. When trying to warm up, they may look “puffed up,” as they fluff their feathers away from their bodies. This can also indicate fatigue, exhaustion, or weakness.
This is just a short basic guide on what to look out for. It may not always apply in every case.
One more recommendation: always carry a cloth bag with you in case you come across a pigeon that needs help. Why?
- It doesn’t take up much space in your bag
- It allows air to pass through
- The pigeon will feel safer inside (it won’t see) and will be easier for you to carry
- You are less likely to cause additional injury if it is already hurt
- The bag can be washed after use
Once again, thank you for reading. Please pay attention to them!
Foto: DonCha
