How to Catch a Pigeon? A Comprehensive Guide

Catching a pigeon may seem like an easy task, but you must understand how to do it safely and humanely. Pigeons are common urban birds, often seen in cities and towns, and are protected by laws in some areas. So, be aware of the laws and regulations before attempting to catch a pigeon.

To catch a pigeon, you can use a net or a basket. If you use a net, ensure it is big enough for the pigeon and approach it slowly. If you use a basket, you can bait it with food to get the pigeon inside.

If you want to learn more about the best methods for catching a pigeon, ethical considerations, how to treat an injured pigeon, and more, continue reading. This article will provide you with all the information you need.

What Are The Best Methods to Catch A Pigeon?

Alright, so let’s dive into the best methods for catching a pigeon. As I mentioned before, using a net or a large basket is considered to be the most effective and humane method. But let’s break it down a bit further.

Netting

Netting is one of the best methods to catch a pigeon. To use this method successfully, you should use a large net to accommodate the pigeon’s size.

Just remember to approach the bird slowly and calmly, as attempting to corner it or move too quickly can cause it to panic and fly away. Additionally, netting is a great option when catching a pigeon in a specific location, such as a rooftop or a park.

Basket trapping

This method is great if you’re trying to catch a pigeon in a more open area, like a field or a park. You’ll need a large basket with a lid and bait like seeds, oats, or crushed-up cornflakes. Place the basket over the pigeon and trap it inside, but monitor the basket regularly to ensure the bird is okay.

Now, these are just a couple of methods, but there are other ways to catch a pigeon too. But I will say these two methods are the most effective and the most humane.

How Can You Catch A Pigeon If It Is Injured?

Catching an injured pigeon can be more tricky than catching a healthy one. But don’t worry; there are still ways to do it safely and humanely.

If you come across an injured pigeon, it’s best to call a professional, such as a wildlife rehabilitation center or a veterinarian, to provide the necessary care. They will have the experience and equipment to safely capture and care for the bird.

But if you need to capture an injured pigeon yourself, you can try a couple of methods.

Blanket or Towel Method

If the pigeon is injured but is also trying to get away, you can try getting close enough to throw a blanket or towel over the pigeon while it’s on the ground, then pick up the blanket or towel and carefully remove the pigeon.

Make sure to keep the bird in a warm and quiet place until you can get it to a professional.

Slide method

You can also use a large piece of plywood or cardboard to slide under the pigeon, trapping it without lifting the bird too high so the pigeon doesn’t escape. Then, you can contain the pigeon in the self-made carrier and take it to a professional for help.

Remember that injured pigeons can be stressed and scared, so approach them slowly and calmly. And, if you’re unsure about how to catch an injured pigeon safely, it’s always best to seek professional help.

Are Traps A Good Option For Catching Pigeons?

Trapping pigeons can be a bit of a controversial topic. Some people believe traps are a great option for controlling pigeon populations, while others argue they’re inhumane and can harm non-target animals.

Pros of Using Traps

Let’s start with the pros of using traps. Traps can be an effective way to control pigeon populations in certain areas, such as on rooftops or in parks. They can also be used to catch individual birds causing problems, like pigeons roosting in a specific location or pigeons causing damage to buildings.

Cons of Using Traps

However, there are also some downsides to using traps. Traps can be inhumane if not checked regularly, and birds can be trapped for long periods without food or water, leading to injury or death. It can also be dangerous for non-target animals, like other birds, bats, or even small mammals.

So, it really depends on the situation. If you’re trying to control a large pigeon population in a specific area, traps can be effective, but you should always use them in conjunction with other methods, like bird-proofing and habitat modification.

What Should You Do If You Find A Pigeon Caught In Plastic Or Other Debris?

Finding a pigeon entangled in plastic or other debris is a serious situation, and it’s important to take immediate action to help the bird.

Safely Capture The Pigeon

The first step is to try to capture the pigeon safely. If the bird is injured or you’re uncomfortable catching it yourself, it’s best to call a professional, such as a wildlife rehabilitation center or a veterinarian, for help.

Remove The Debris

Once the bird is safely captured, the next step is to remove the debris. If the pigeon is entangled in plastic or other debris, it’s important to be extremely careful when cutting the material away. Use scissors or shears to cut the material as close to the bird’s skin as possible, being careful not to cut the bird.

Remember that plastic and other debris can be dangerous for pigeons and other wildlife. So dispose of the debris properly to prevent it from harming other animals.

What Are The Ethical Considerations When Catching A Pigeon?

When catching a pigeon, ethical considerations include protecting the bird’s welfare and not causing unnecessary harm. Consider the pigeon’s well-being throughout the entire process of catching and handling it, from the initial capture to its release or relocation.

Avoiding Injury and Distress

One important consideration is to avoid using methods that can cause injury or distress to the pigeon, such as using glue traps or killing the bird. Instead, humane methods such as using a net or a trap and providing proper care for the pigeon after catching it should be employed.

Adhering to Local Laws

Another ethical consideration is to ensure that the pigeon is not taken from the wild without good reason. In some jurisdictions, capturing wild pigeons without a permit is illegal. Therefore, be familiar with local laws and regulations regarding the capture of pigeons.

Considering the Natural Habitat

It is also important to consider the pigeon’s natural habitat and the impact of removing it from its environment. If the pigeon is caught in a location where it is causing a problem, such as a building or public area, it is important to release the bird in a suitable location where it can thrive.

Ensuring Humane Treatment

It is essential to consider the humane treatment of the pigeon while it is in captivity. This includes providing the bird with proper food and water, as well as proper housing and medical care if needed.

In short, catching a pigeon is a serious action, and it should be done with care and only for good reasons, and it’s important to consider the welfare and well-being of the bird throughout the entire process.

Cardboard Trap to Catch Pigeons

Can Pigeons Carry Heavy Objects if I’m Trying to Catch Them?

Pigeons, despite their small size, have impressive flying capabilities. However, it is important to be aware of weight limits for carrying pigeons. Attempting to catch them while burdened with heavy objects may not only be harmful to the birds but also hinder their ability to fly efficiently. Respecting their physical limitations ensures their well-being and allows them to carry out their natural behaviors effortlessly.

Conclusion

Catching a pigeon can be a delicate task that requires knowledge, patience, and care. Several methods can be used to catch a pigeon, such as using a net or a large basket, which are considered to be the most effective and humane.

Injured pigeons require special attention, and it’s best to call a professional for help in such cases. Trapping pigeons can be a controversial topic and should be used with caution and as a last resort after all humane methods have failed and are always in accordance with laws and regulations.

And finally, if you come across a pigeon entangled in plastic or other debris, it’s important to act quickly and safely to help the bird and prevent this from happening again. Remember, the welfare of the bird should always come first.