New York City, let’s be kinder to pigeons

In almost every city I’ve visited, pigeons have seemed to be the common factor of metropolitan life. But with such an abundance of these birds comes a wide distaste for them too. And while it can be understood that New York City residents find these so-called “flying rats” a nuisance, with their constant threat to poop on heads and spread diseases, pigeons remain a misunderstood animal that define the city’s history, community and culture. I’m not the only resident who’s noticed the general aversion to the bird. While spending time in Greenwich Village years ago, CAS professor Colin Jerolmack, who teaches sociology and environmental studies, experienced a rite of passage for the average New Yorker — a pigeon “crapped” on him.

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