Expert: Julia Booth - 9/18/2009

Question
We are looking for an expert in pigeons who can testify in court regarding the health hazards of feeding pigeons in an apartment.

Answer
CDC can give you numbers associated with illnesses that are spread by the pigeon population. I definitely recommend against feeding pigeons and doves, due to the overwhelming number of them. The rise in population leads to disease among the birds themselves, which in turn affects other organisms in their habitat. This is also a problem with ducks. Pigeons are especially a problem because in an urban setting, they have few natural enemies.

I don't think I would be legally qualified to act as an expert witness. You can however, quote me if you wish.

I recommend contacting either the Center for Disease Control or your local Vector Control or Department of Fish and Game. I'm not sure how that's organized in New York. Here in CA we have only counties and cities. They would be able to furnish you with more official data.

Let me know if you need more information,

Julia