Pigeons on cities kill list

Cities are divided over how to deal with pigeon populations - and the methods are raising concern.

In Zurich, around 1,000 pigeons are culled each year to limit damage and health risks, a practice that recently sparked outrage after images surfaced online.

But cities like Geneva and Lausanne are taking a different approach, banning feeding to naturally control numbers.

Animal groups say neither strategy goes far enough, calling instead for managed dovecotes as a more humane, long-term solution.

But individuals are being warned it is illegal to remove a pigeon nest from your garden or balcony. Nesting birds are protected under federal laws - even pigeons. 

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