Pigeons are a common sight at railway stations, but feeding them can cause significant problems. Many people believe they are doing the birds a favor, yet in reality, it harms both the pigeons and humans — as well as the station infrastructure. Here are several reasons why feeding pigeons on platforms is not a good idea:
Please take note of the following instructions if you have found an animal in need at the train station: Animals in distress
Overpopulation and Dependency
Copy link to this sectionRegular feeding leads to an artificial increase in pigeon populations. The birds become accustomed to easily accessible food, disrupting their natural survival instincts. They grow dependent on human feeding and lose the ability to forage independently. Instead of seeking food in natural surroundings, they remain in large flocks at stations — often unable to maintain a healthy diet.
Poor Nesting Conditions and Dangers for Young Birds
Copy link to this sectionFurthermore, pigeons at stations lack proper nesting sites, and young birds are raised under extreme conditions. Abandoned station structures or cramped nesting spaces are quickly occupied by multiple pigeons and become heavily soiled. Chicks born in nests contaminated with droppings are exposed to unhygienic conditions, which can cause severe illness and a painful death.
The rail environment itself also poses a great danger to both young pigeons and their parent birds.
Improper Diet, Disease & Other Pests
Copy link to this sectionBreadcrumbs and other human foods are unsuitable for pigeons and can lead to malnutrition or disease.
Pollution and Health Risks*
Copy link to this sectionPigeon droppings are not only unsightly but also pose a serious hygiene problem. They contain bacteria, fungi, and parasites that can transmit diseases such as salmonella or respiratory infections (chlamydia). In addition, soiled platforms can become slippery and hazardous for passengers.
*Source: Berufsgenossenschaft Bau | DGUV Information 201-031 | Guidelines for Risk Assessment under the Biological Agents Ordinance (BioStoffV) | Health Risks Caused by Pigeon Droppings
Feeding pigeons also attracts other pests
Copy link to this sectionPigeon feed is also welcomed by rats, mice, and other vermin. Railway facilities cannot be permanently cleared of food scraps, leading to an ongoing increase in rodent populations near stations.
This in turn harms infrastructure, disrupts the natural ecological balance, and affects other small animals lower in the food chain.
Damage to Infrastructure
Copy link to this sectionPigeon droppings are acidic and corrosive, damaging materials such as metal, plastic, and paint. This causes deterioration of stations, benches, and other structures, resulting in substantial long-term cleaning and repair costs for Deutsche Bahn.
Disruption of Rail Operations
Copy link to this sectionLarge pigeon populations can interfere with railway operations. The birds often fly low over platforms, sit on tracks, or get trapped in trains. This can cause delays and even dangerous situations when passengers attempt to chase or rescue them. The pigeons themselves are also at risk of serious injury or death when they fly carelessly into moving trains.
What Can You Do Instead?
Copy link to this sectionRather than attracting pigeons to train stations, it is better not to feed them at all. Many cities are now introducing supervised pigeon lofts where the birds are properly cared for — or use fertility-reducing feed. Those who wish to help pigeons can learn about and support such programs.
Conclusion
Copy link to this sectionNo matter how well-intentioned, feeding pigeons has negative consequences for people, animals, and infrastructure. Anyone who wants to help should refrain from feeding and instead support sustainable solutions. A pigeon-free platform is not only cleaner and safer — it is also in the best interest of the birds themselves.
If you witness animal distress, you can contact our regional 3-S-Z service center at any time. The phone number is displayed on the platform.