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Hazel the Harris Hawk goes on vermin patrol
Evening Standard30 Jan 2009
ONE of London's oldest street markets is being patrolled by a trained hawk in an attempt to rid it of pigeons.
Islington council chiefs came up with the idea after traders and customers complained about the birds, commonly regarded as vermin, plaguing the area around Whitecross Street.
They were attracted from their nests in nearby roads by the thriving food market - held on Thursdays and Fridays. Hazel the Harris hawk, pictured with handler Karl Robertson, is now brought in twice a week and supervised by a handler. Trained by Tunbridge Wells-based company Hawk Force, she has been taught to scare the pigeons, not injure them.
Hazel patrols the 17th century market at lunchtimes to deter the pigeons from visiting, and it is hoped they will stay away. The scheme will cost £2,175 for the training and supervision of the hawk. Councillor Greg Foxsmith, Islington council's executive member for environment, said: "This is green, clean and beautiful to watch."
Reader views (3)
Hmmm..are we sure this is "polictically correct"? what about the "rights" of pigeons ?
- Charles, London, 02/02/2009 17:56
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..Saw a pigeon fly into a shop at Liverpool St. Station on Friday, and 'peck' its way into a choccie bar before the owner could chase it out. Pigeons have twigged that where there are humans - there is food even if it is wrapped in shiny paper..
- Joannie, London, England, 02/02/2009 11:05
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Pity the pigeons are staying away, it would make for a great lunchtime show with ones' pie and pint.
- Frank H., London., 31/01/2009 08:51
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