Feral chickens
Feral Bird Control
The once domestic chicken (Gallus domesticus) has now established an extensive breeding population in the wild. They are referred to as 'feral'. Feral chickens cause destruction of habitat, damage crops and gardens. They are a source of noise nuisance and potential disease vectors impacting human health.
Other invasive bird species in Bermuda include feral Pigeons (Columba livia) and the American Crow (Corvus brachyrhychos). These invasive species compete with our native and endemic bird species (eg. Cahows and Longtails). Along with the feral chicken they are also potential disease vectors impacting human health.
Our Service
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources offers a free public service to remove infestations of feral birds, including feral chickens, pigeons and crows.
The Department uses an approved integrated pest management strategy, whereby experienced technical officers assess the nature of each infestation, specifically the species and the conditions of each individual site, and determine the most efficient method(s) to address the problem.
Our methods include a variety of traps, nets, licensed shooting and sedative bait.
The Department follows health and safety procedures designed to give the best results, while minimizing risk to pets, non-target species and to the environment.
Tips on keeping feral birds out of your yard
It may not always be possible for us to remove all the feral chickens, pigeons or crows in your area. However, here are some tips for how you can keep them from coming into your yard.
Use trash bins: Put your trash bags into bins with lids to prevent birds and other pests from getting into them.
Feed your pets inside: Do not leave bowls of cat or dog food laying around outside. This will attract feral birds and other pests into your yard.
Do not feed the birds: Providing a regular source of food will encourage pest bird species to return to your property.