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Caerphilly Castle pigeon cull suspension to continue

News | Rhys Williams | Published: 10:03, Thursday October 10th, 2019.

Caerphilly Castle

Welsh Government body Cadw has announced the pigeon cull suspension at Caerphilly Castle will continue.

The body, responsible for maintaining historic monuments in Wales, was heavily criticised in May after birds, some of which had recently been released by Caerphilly Bird Rescue, were shot by its contractors on the castle grounds.

After the incident, Cadw suspended the cull.

A Cadw spokesman said an independent review of feral pigeon management had taken place.

He said: “This recommends that the pigeon population is carefully monitored and if any increase is identified then localised proofing measures, such as installing spikes or the use of wire mesh to block up holes in walls, will continue.”

Carol Gravenor of Caerphilly Bird Rescue said she was “over the moon” with the announcement.

Mrs Gravenor said: “This is amazing news. I’m just glad it’s gone the full length. It’s a big win for us and the support we’ve had is amazing.

“These killings were so unnecessary. Cadw wouldn’t have taken notice if it wasn’t for people standing up.”

Wayne David MP said: “I am glad that Cadw is not, at least in the immediate future, going to pursue a policy of culling pigeons.

“It is now important to make sure that this is the permanent policy of Cadw. Public pressure must be maintained.”

Hefin David AM also welcomed the news, saying: “The important thing now is to ensure that this becomes permanent and that other, more humane practices, are adopted.

“I will continue to put pressure on Welsh Government.”

Cllr Lindsay Whittle said he was “delighted” with the news.

He said: “This is good news all around. There was no need for the cull.

“It’s terrible for humans to decide which animals live or die.

“Why don’t Cadw make this permanent?”

Caerphilly Media

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