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PROTECTION OF BIRDS ACT. 1954
Infestation by feral pigeons was the subject of complaint in
the early part of the year and was found, on investigation, to be widespread,
high rise blocks of flats being particularly affected.
Several methods of control were carried out, including trapping,
shooting and narcotisation. This latter method was new and was operated
at first under the control of the Pest Division of the Ministry of Agriculture,
Fisheries and Food, who, after supervising the first two incidents, granted a
license to a member of the Department who has since supervised this method
of control.
During the year a considerable reduction in numbers has been
effected, particularly at the Clarksons and The Shaftesbury flats and at
Sebastian Court. However, there appears to be no short term remedy to
eliminate this pest. Often infestations are encouraged by residents throwing
waste food, particularly bread, to the one or two feral pigeons which begin to
frequent the building and very quickly the numbers are augmented by breeding
and influx of other pigeons so that in a short time a sizeable infestation
exists. Efforts to persuade residents to cease feeding the birds have met
with only minimal success and the policy of controlling these birds remains
very controversial.
BEES AND WASPS
From time to time complaints were received concerning swarms of
bees and wasps. The co-operation of bee keepers has been sought in the past
but difficulties were being experienced in obtaining their help and, therefore,
alternative arrangements had to be made.
After many enquiries the services were acquired of two people who
agreed to be available at all times to deal with these matters.
These arrangements have proved to be very advantageous to the
department.
RIDING ESTABLISHMENTS ACTS. 1964 and 1970
The one riding establishment continued to operate and the staff of
the Corporation of London who administer the Act on our behalf were satisfied
with the manner in which it was run.
No complaints from residents were received during the year.
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