Table of Contents
In a shocking turn of events, a Brooklyn pet store owner is facing serious allegations of kidnapping pigeons from public parks and selling them to hunters as live targets. The accusations have ignited a firestorm of protest among animal rights activists, who claim that this practice is not only illegal but also a form of animal cruelty.
Activists rally against alleged pigeon poaching
Animal rights activist Tina Piña has been vocal about her concerns, stating that her own flock of pigeons was recently captured by a man believed to be associated with Michael Scott, co-owner of Broadway Pigeon & Pet Supplies in Bushwick.
Piña, who has cared for her flock for over a decade, organized a rally outside the pet store, drawing attention to the plight of these birds. “When it happens to you, it’s different,” she expressed, highlighting the emotional toll of losing her beloved pigeons.
The dark side of pigeon trapping
Pigeon trapping is illegal on public property in New York City, classified as animal abuse under local laws. Despite this, reports of such activities have persisted for years, with activists claiming that the practice is widespread across various parks in the city.
Piña’s allegations suggest a troubling pattern, where pigeons are captured just before shooting contests, raising concerns about the timing and intent behind these actions.
Community response and calls for action
Joey Scott, Michael’s brother and co-owner of the pet store, has denied the allegations, asserting that they only sell unwanted pigeons from their inherited rooftop coop.
However, the community remains skeptical, with many demanding a thorough investigation into the claims. John Di Leonardo, executive director of Humane Long Island, emphasized the need for law enforcement to take these allegations seriously, stating, “Laws are only as good as their enforcement.” Activists like Piña are determined to keep the pressure on, planning protests and social media campaigns to raise awareness about the issue.
The situation has sparked a broader conversation about the treatment of pigeons in urban environments. Many New Yorkers view these birds as integral to the city’s ecosystem, providing a connection to nature in an otherwise concrete landscape. As the debate continues, the future of Brooklyn’s pigeons hangs in the balance, with activists vowing to fight for their protection.
