Penang council swoops in, fines 17 for feeding pigeons and crows, culls thousands

GEORGE TOWN, June 5 — The Penang Island City Council (MBPP) issued 17 compounds last month to individuals found feeding pigeons and crows as part of efforts to curb the growing population of pest birds in urban areas.

In a statement today, MBPP said feeding birds was among the key factors contributing to the increasing population of pest birds, particularly pigeons and crows, on the island.

“The compounds were issued under Section 47(1)(g) of the Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974 against individuals who failed to comply with the prohibition.

“Throughout May, MBPP also conducted continuous control operations, during which 1,817 pigeons and 2,607 crows were culled, while 125 crow nests were destroyed to prevent a further increase in their population,” the statement said.

MBPP also said it would continue to step up control operations and enforcement activities from time to time to ensure a clean, safe and conducive urban environment for all Penangites.

The city council also reminded the public not to feed wild birds, as such action could contribute to an increase in the population of pest birds and adversely affect public hygiene and health. — Bernama