Feeding pigeon in Margareten: Does the hobbyist also attract rats?

Feeding pigeon in Margareten: Does the hobbyist also attract rats?

In the streets of Margareten, a pigeon lover causes excitement. A resident has observed how a man tilts the sack cubes on the sidewalks every day to feed the feathered residents of the city. However, she expresses concerns: "He attracts rats rather than pigeons!" These fears are not unfounded - as experts explain, feed that is improperly interpreted, often also undesirable guests. The man is spotted in various places around 6 a.m., including the Einsiedlergasse corner of Brandmayergasse and Arbeitergasse corner Obere Amtshausgasse. In the Bacherpark it is described as medieval and seen with a shopping bag full of bread cubes.

The magistrate department 49 (forestry and agricultural business) informs that feeding pigeons is generally permitted as long as legal requirements are observed. "It is the responsibility of the owners to take suitable measures against rat infestation," explains a spokesman. This includes regular checks and the professional interpretation of baits. However, there are no comprehensive figures for the rat population in the Margaret district, which increases the problem. Regular monitoring by pest control services is also recommended to prevent possible attacks.

The correct feeding of pigeons

What should actually end up in the deaf food is a passionate topic for many animal lovers. According to the Erna Graff Foundation , bread is completely unsuitable, for example, since it can ferment the pigeons and to painful symptoms. "Instead, dry products such as kernels and legumes are ideal," explains the foundation. The suitable types of feed include corn, sunflower seeds, dried peas or raw rice. Finished feed mixtures from the animal trade are optimal because they contain all the necessary minerals and nutrients.

In contrast to the denounced pigeon feeding bans in many German cities, there is a different handling in Vienna. Feeding depends on the specific legal situations of the cities and can be regulated differently anywhere. While there are strict fines in some cities, partly in Vienna is based on education and control. However, feeding must not lead to street pollution, which is also relevant in the case of the Margaretner Taubenfreunde.

animal protection and city life

city pigeons are not just wild birds, but domesticated offspring of house and racial pigeons. They have adapted in urban environments over the centuries and are now often looking for food in the middle of leftovers that leave people. According to a survey from 2021, various concepts for a harmonious coexistence of humans and pigeons as well as the importance of an animal welfare -compliant inventory regulation are spoken. Experts suggest that the municipalities are responsible for urban and animal populations and that they are not allowed to ignore such challenges Tierrechte.de reports about it.

A mutual exchange between citizens, the responsible bodies and animal lovers could help to take into account both the needs of the city pigeons and to maintain the qualities of urban coexistence. Ultimately, it is up to us how we deal with the feathered residents of our city and whether we can create responsible cooperation.