Bill > A1473

Introduced Session

The bill amends several sections of law to clarify that the Rock Pigeon (Columba livia), known as the "common pigeon" and the "domestic pigeon," is not protected under State law. The bill sets the Rock Pigeon apart from other pigeons and wild birds, and removes any confusion of identification between the Rock Pigeon and the Passenger Pigeon (Ectopistes migratorius), which became extinct in the early 20th century but is still protected by law. The bill also clarifies that the State animal cruelty statutes do not apply to the killing or shooting of a Rock Pigeon (Columba livia) to decrease populations of the bird or for public health reasons. The Rock Pigeon is not native to the United States of America. It is an invasive species that competes with native bird species for food and habitat. It is known to present health risks for humans and animals, especially horses and livestock, and to cause significant property damage to buildings and structures, especially public statuary. The Rock Pigeon is not listed as a protected species under the federal "Migratory Bird Treaty Act," 16 U.S.C. s.703 et seq., and it is not otherwise protected under federal law or under state law in most of the United States. The Rock Pigeon is not an endangered or threatened species. There is a large Rock Pigeon population now endemic to cities, farms, and towns in the United States. These birds are believed to have descended from imported and domestically raised pigeons that escaped from owners, became feral, and now are pests in many communities. However, the bill does not affect the use of the Rock Pigeon in beneficial activities such as bird banding, falconry, raptor research and education, raptor propagation and release projects, raptor rehabilitation, scientific studies, wildlife conservation, zoological collections, and "homing" pigeon training and competition.

AI Summary

Committee Categories

Michael Carroll (R)*, 

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee (on 01/27/2016)