In the UK, the DEFRA has specified through the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (Chapter 69) that it’s unlawful to injure or take the life of wild birds, like pigeons and seagulls.
If an individual is faced with a predicament where they need to remove a bird from their garden or backyard, they must rely on non-lethal methods before shooting them.
It is also essential to remember that it is up to the property owner to manage the situation however long they delegate it.
If you have exhausted non-lethal methods to resolve your pigeon issue, you may want to consider culling under a General Licence.
This type of work is only permitted if it poses a low risk to the conservation and welfare of the birds, and the conditions outlined in the licence are strictly followed.
The current General Licence, which covers wild birds, including feral and wood pigeons, was implemented on January 1, 2022, and is valid until December 31, 2023. Property owners can utilise General Licence 41 (GL41) if the birds are causing public health and safety concerns, such as spreading disease, nesting, or causing slips and falls.
While there is no formal application process for this licence, it is critical to comply with the conditions of GL41.
Please note that all non-lethal bird control methods, such as bird spikes, must be considered or attempted first before using this licence.
License 42 (GL42) specifically targets agricultural environments, focusing on issues related to livestock feed, disease transmission, and the growth of fruits, vegetables, and crops. It should only be utilised as a final option.
You are allowed to shoot woodpigeons if you have a general licence issued by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) in England, Natural Resources Wales (NRW) in Wales, NatureScot in Scotland, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) in Northern Ireland, or the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) on the Isle of Man.
You do not need to apply for an individual licence, but it’s essential to follow the terms and conditions of the general licence. You can find more information about available licences on basc.org.uk/gl.
The authorisation to control certain species for specific purposes is granted through general licences. These licences outline the approved reasons for control, such as preventing severe damage.
However, if a general licence does not cover the species, location, or reasoning for rule, the relevant authority must obtain an individual licence.
A general licence may not be applicable in some designated areas, depending on the country you are operating in. Details of any site restrictions can be found on the relevant licence. Additionally, consent from the appropriate government agency may be required.
It is important to note that the species listed on general licences and the reasons they are issued can vary between countries.
For those wishing to control woodpigeons under the authority of a general licence, BASC strongly recommends reading the advice available on their website at basc.org.uk/gl.
It is crucial to exercise caution when identifying pigeons in the field, as wild-living, former racing, and homing pigeons often fly with feral pigeons.
These birds are strictly protected as they are still considered the property of their original owner and may be difficult to identify with leg rings. When in doubt, it is best to refrain from shooting.
It is illegal in the UK to harm or kill wild birds under Chapter 69 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. However, property owners can use a licensing system provided by the Department of Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs to drive away pigeons.
While you don’t need to apply for a license, it’s essential to follow the terms of the law when removing pigeons from your property.
The regulations state that non-lethal actions should be taken first to drive away the birds, such as using water or creating loud noises.
If non-lethal methods prove ineffective, shooting pigeons on your roof is only permissible as a last resort. Different licenses apply in other parts of the UK.
Here is a summary of the licenses:
Under this law, intentionally killing, harming or disturbing any wild birds, their nests or eggs is prohibited. This includes when the bird is constructing a nest, the presence of eggs or fledglings, and the disruption of a nest holding chicks.
In England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and the Isle of Man, the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, Natural Resources Wales, NatureScot, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, and the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture respectively issue general licenses for the shooting of woodpigeons.
These licences permit the control of certain species for specific reasons, such as preventing severe damage. However, if a species, location, or basis for management is not included in the general licence, the relevant authority must obtain an individual licence.
https://www.yorkpress.co.uk/news/19805813.man-court-shot-pigeons-garden/
The Columba palumbus, commonly known as the woodpigeon, is a significant agricultural nuisance in the UK. As per the terms and conditions of applicable general licenses, shooting woodpigeons all year round is lawful.
If you abide by the licensing agreements, you can shoot pigeons on a Sunday.
is it illegal to shoot pigeons with a pellet gun/air rifle
Typically, a shotgun will be used when dealing with pigeons that raid crops.
However, using an airgun to shoot them is also a feasible option. We recommend against using any weapon in a built-up area such as a home or garden.
If you have neighbours, this can be dangerous.
If you’re dealing with a pigeon problem on your property, shooting the birds off your roof might seem like an easy solution.
However, this approach won’t solve the underlying issue and could cause more problems in the long run. For one, it’s against the law to kill certain birds in certain areas, so you risk getting in trouble with the government.
Additionally, shooting projectiles at your home could cause property damage or harm to people or small animals. Even if you manage to hit a few birds, you’re not addressing the root cause of the problem – there will always be more birds to take their place.
To avoid causing damage or breaking the law, seeking other, more humane solutions to your pigeon problem is best.
It is allowed to shoot woodpigeons under the authority of specific general licenses issued by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) for England, Natural Resources Wales (NRW) for Wales, NatureScot for Scotland, and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) in Northern Ireland.
This general licence authorises the killing or taking of feral pigeons to preserve public health and prevent the spread of disease.
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