Press Release

Junior swoops in!

November 2008

Homes For Islington have been trying a new way of dealing with the problems faced by residents about flocks of pigeons causing mess and inconvenience on King Square and the Finsbury estate by introducing Junior the harrier hawk to the area.

Previous attempts at controlling the problems caused by the pigeons such as putting up bird netting had failed to reduce the numbers significantly and made residents feel claustrophobic, as well complaints that it was unsightly. Junior’s twice weekly visits to the estate have, however, proved a great success.

Junior is specially trained to fly towards flocks of pigeons to scare and disperse them, but not to harm them in any way. Over time, the pigeons learn to associate the area with danger and leave for good.

Pigeons can cause several problems including carrying a range of infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and salmonella, as well as their droppings and feathers creating slippery surfaces on concrete and carrying parasites. Some residents had also complained that the pigeons had flown into their homes through open windows!

Junior has just completed a seven week trial period, which saw a reduction in the number of pigeons by week three. The success of the experiment is such that the trial is now being extending for a full 6 month period.

Sharron Kelly, Chair of Finsbury Tenants and Residents Association said: “We are impressed with the trial use of the hawk on the Finsbury Estate to address pigeon problems. This is something our TRA has urged HFI to consider. Unlike netting and spiking, which requires on-going cleaning, repairs and inevitable replacement; this is a clean, effective and sustainable alternative.”

HFI will be assessing the impact of the trial to see whether it can be extended.

ENDS

For media enquiries please contact James Asser in the HFI communications team on 020 7527 4379 or email james.asser@homesforislington.org.uk

Notes to editors:

1. Homes for Islington, one of the UK’s largest arms length management organisations (ALMO), which began operations in April 2004, is charged with managing council housing stock throughout the borough. It is owned by Islington Council and managed by a Board of Directors, made up of Islington tenants and leaseholders, council representatives and independent members.
2. Pictures of junior on the estate are attached: Image 1, Image 2