Transport for London (TfL) has carried out at least 123 shoots between March 2024 and March 2026 to control the pigeon population at London stations, resulting in the deaths of 655 birds.
The operations, which included the removal of 17 active nests and the killing or removal of at least seven chicks, have been criticized by campaigners who claim that the methods used inflicted unnecessary suffering on the pigeons.
Pictures obtained by Metro show workers in high-visibility vests aiming air rifles at pigeons in stations, while another image shows a worker at Stanmore Station with their boot on a bleeding bird.
The shooting operations were carried out by contracted pest control services, with TfL citing the need to maintain a safe and clean environment at stations and depots.
However, campaigners argue that TfL did not take reasonable steps to mitigate suffering or explore non-lethal alternatives, and have filed a crime report with British Transport Police.
Manchester Pigeon Rehab, which collected the data, claims that TfL should immediately end lethal control in favor of habitat modification, humane deterrents, and other non-lethal management measures.
The organization argues that pigeons are intelligent and highly social animals, and that the use of lethal control methods is unnecessary and inhumane.
TfL has responded to the criticism, stating that their approach is focused on prevention and that animal cruelty is taken very seriously.
However, the use of lethal control methods has been criticized by many, including Natural England, which recommends avoiding lethal control during breeding season.
In some cases, birds have been shot and not instantly killed, with some even escaping with serious injuries.
One report from Arnos Grove station revealed that in 20 shots fired, only 16 pigeons were culled, due to four shots hitting one bird but not resulting in an instant kill.
A worker at Ruislip Depot also reported that a pigeon was shot and managed to fly out of the open doors, despite best efforts to locate and remove it.
The use of lethal control methods has sparked controversy, with many arguing that it is unnecessary and inhumane.
TfL has stated that they will continue to invest in preventative measures and exhaust all appropriate non-lethal methods before resorting to lethal control.
However, campaigners remain concerned about the use of lethal control methods and are calling for TfL to adopt more humane and non-lethal approaches to managing the pigeon population.
TfL has a duty of care to customers, staff, contractors, and other third parties to maintain a safe, clean environment at stations and depots.
Pigeon waste carries risks of bacteria and insects, while nesting and waste material creates fire hazards and structural damage.
TfL has been working with suppliers to ensure that the removal of pigeons or their nests is undertaken with consideration and only as a last resort when other deterrents have failed.
The debate over the use of lethal control methods in managing the pigeon population at London stations is ongoing, with both sides presenting strong arguments.
TfL has a responsibility to balance the need to maintain a safe and clean environment with the need to minimize suffering and explore non-lethal alternatives.
The use of lethal control methods has sparked controversy, but TfL remains committed to their approach.
