Useful Resources for Aspiring Pigeon Rescuers

Note: This is just a start to my own collection of information on my journey helping urban pigeons. Will be updated regularly.

The German pigeon rescue landscape

Grassroot organisations and volunteer networks

In Germany, there is no centralised pigeon rescue “authority”. Instead, there are a lot of grassroot pigeon rescue organisations that are run by volunteers and only active in specific regions.

Some bigger regions like Berlin, Hamburg, Frankfurt and Münich may have more than one active organisation.

Our colleagues at Rhein Neckar have gathered a list here: German List of pigeon rescue organisations Germany-wide. Do note that the list is not exhaustive.

The bigger animal protection agencies like Tierschutzverband, Peta or RSPCA focus mainly on advocacy and policy; they don’t do localised animal rescue work. If you find an injured pigeon, they should not be your first line of contact.

Expectation setting

Many people contact these rescue organisations not realising that they are run by volunteers, who often also have other full time jobs and limited resources. Please be kind and adjust your expectations accordingly.

English speakers

As with most things in Germany, the first line of communication in these organisations is usually German. But don't let this stop you!

Other Useful Websites

• Palomacy — Pigeon rescue in the Bay Area (US)

• r/Pigeon subreddit

• Columbidae Ownership Omnibus