Combating Pigeon Misery: On the Road with the Egg Swappers - German Cities Tackle Pigeon Population Boom With Unique Egg-Swapping Method
In the heart of Germany, cities like Mainz and Wiesbaden are addressing a common urban challenge: the rapid growth of pigeon populations. The Maintauben association, with members like Alexandra Dommes in Mainz, is spearheading this effort, employing a unique method to control the pigeon population.
The association's primary tactic is egg swapping. Volunteers, including Verena L. and Sina J. in Frankfurt, climb up to nests using a homemade pole equipped with a whisk and pasta ladle. They carefully replace real pigeon eggs with fake ones, reducing the breeding rate and limiting the number of sick and injured pigeon chicks. This humane approach has proven successful in Wiesbaden, where the pigeon population growth rate has dropped from over 40% to a mere 5.5% in the city center.
The Maintauben association has been actively involved in this initiative. In 2023, they replaced over 1,600 eggs, and in 2024, they managed to swap around 1,100 eggs. This dedication has significantly contributed to the reduction in the pigeon population. The city of Wiesbaden supports this initiative by funding a part-time position for the project. The next pigeon count, scheduled for late October, will provide further insights into the success of this method.
The egg-swapping initiative, led by the Maintauben association, is a testament to the power of community involvement in urban wildlife management. By controlling the pigeon population, cities like Mainz and Wiesbaden aim to improve the living conditions for both humans and birds, reducing suffering and the spread of diseases.
