2,000 pigeons shot with rifles at railway stations
Summary
More than 2,000 pigeons have been shot at railway stations and depots across the UK over 16 months to reduce health risks and hazards caused by pigeon droppings. Professional pest controllers use air rifles mainly at night, while some groups call for more humane and community-based pigeon management.Key Facts
- Over 2,000 pigeons were shot at UK railway stations from January 2025 to April 2026.
- York Station alone had 608 pigeons killed during this period, with 152 killed in one day.
- Train operator LNER shot more than 800 pigeons, mostly at York Station.
- Network Rail also culled 600 pigeons at stations including Bristol Temple Meads and London Euston.
- Pigeon droppings can carry diseases such as psittacosis and salmonella, creating health hazards.
- Pest controllers say shooting is a last resort after other deterrents fail.
- Some experts argue pigeons are pests due to disease risks; others say humans created the problem by domesticating pigeons and building city environments suitable for them.
- Animal advocates seek more humane and community-focused ways to manage pigeon populations.
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