Pigeon problems: German town votes to have birds killed, outraging animal rights’ activists
Pigeons have to be one of the most unloved animals that humans ever drew to our side. The birds that flock European squares descended from domesticated rock doves some 10,000 years ago, and so are unusually relaxed around humans. The feeling isn’t mutual, however. These gregarious birds tend to bring out irritation and disgust in people - as well as more nurturing instincts in those willing to share their crumbs. But the pigeon-human relationship has taken a more drastic turn in one German town. Limburg an der Lahn, in the western German state of Hesse, has just voted to exterminate its 700-st...