If you are one of the kind people who love feeding pigeons then beware about its dangers. Pigeons are known carriers of airborne diseases, with their droppings containing bacteria harmful to the respiratory system. The mess created by pigeons in public places poses environmental hazards. To raise awareness and discourage people from feeding them, the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) has released a documentary titled “Mercy Feeding: Pigeon Menace in Urban Areas.”
The documentary mercy feeding, sheds light on the environmental and public health problems caused by uncontrolled pigeon populations due to feeding in public places. It highlights how the practice of feeding them has significantly increased their numbers in urban areas.
Although feeding pigeons is considered an act of kindness, it has unintended negative consequences, including disruption of local biodiversity and public health risks. The documentary highlighted the ecological and health impacts of pigeon overpopulation, the role of excessive feeding in disrupting urban biodiversity, stopping the ‘Mercy Feeding’ practices and promoting wild-urban-avifauna. The film emphasizes the need for awareness and responsible urban wildlife management to tackle this issue.
“Feeding pigeons may seem compassionate, but it contributes to their rising population, resulting in unsanitary conditions. Their droppings spread diseases, posing a risk to individuals with low immunity,” said Praveen Singh Pardeshi, President of BNHS.
BNHS Director Kishor Rithe expressed hope that the documentary would educate pigeon-feeding communities and encourage them to stop the practice.
During the documentary’s screening, BNHS President Praveen Singh Pardeshi, Director Kishor Rithe, and Honorary Secretary Dr. Bharat Bhushan were present. The documentary presents objective information and expert opinions to raise public awareness about the harmful effects of feeding pigeons in public spaces.
