Feeding birds might seem like a harmless, even kind-hearted activity that connects us with nature. However, in some parts of Australia, this seemingly innocent pastime could land you in hot water, with fines that could take a significant bite out of your savings.
In Western Australia and South Australia, giving your lunch leftovers to pigeons isn’t just frowned upon—it could be met with a hefty fine of up to $30,000.
This might come as a shock to many, especially those of us who grew up believing that sharing a bit of our sandwich with the local wildlife was a small act of kindness. But as Sydney lawyer Avinash Singh explained, local councils in these states take the matter very seriously.
‘This is particularly the case when a complaint is made — quite often neighbours will take videos and photos of the number of pigeons and the person feeding them,’ he said.
The rationale behind such severe penalties is multifaceted. South Australia’s legislation aims to protect communities from nuisances and prevent littering. It’s also about safeguarding property values, as pigeon overpopulation can lead to noise, dirt, and property damage, particularly through their acidic droppings that can erode buildings and infrastructure.
But it’s not just about keeping the neighbourhood clean or maintaining property prices. There are significant environmental and health concerns associated with feeding pigeons.
These birds can carry diseases transmissible to humans and other animals, including respiratory infections and parasites. By feeding them, we encourage larger flocks to gather, increasing the risk of disease spread.
Moreover, pigeons are not native to Australia. Their burgeoning populations can disrupt local ecosystems by competing with indigenous bird species for resources, which can have a detrimental impact on biodiversity. The birds can also become dependent on human-provided food, which is often not suitable for their dietary needs.
In Western Australia, while the fines are slightly less—capping at $20,000—the message is clear: feeding pigeons is a serious offence. The emphasis is on protecting the environment and the well-being of the community.
The issue of pigeon control came to a head last month in Adelaide when a pigeon culler, reportedly using an air rifle, caused alarm among locals as he targeted birds on the roof of a residential home. The incident, which took place near a busy playground where children were playing, highlighted the extreme measures sometimes taken to manage pigeon populations.
‘It’s definitely one of Australia’s strangest laws,’ Singh added. ‘While it may be annoying for other people passing by or trying to relax, it’s not something people think they can get in trouble with the law for.’
It’s important for seniors, and indeed all Australians, to be aware of these regulations to avoid inadvertently breaking the law. While feeding birds might seem like a trivial matter, the potential fines are anything but. It’s a reminder that our interactions with wildlife, no matter how well-intentioned, can have unintended consequences.
So, next time you’re tempted to toss a crumb to a pigeon, remember that it could be an expensive snack. Instead, consider other ways to enjoy wildlife that don’t involve feeding, such as birdwatching or visiting a local nature reserve where you can appreciate our country’s native species in a responsible and lawful manner.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic. Have you ever been warned against feeding birds, or do you have any experience with local wildlife regulations?
