Outcry over Gyas members shooting pigeons
The photos were shared with city blog Sikkom, with the contributors expressing their disgust at the action.
Permit
There is a rumour among students that a dozen or so Gyas members had a permit to shoot the pigeons. Bob Langereis, external relations manager at Gyas, wouldn’t confirm this, referring instead to the official statement on the club’s website.
The club writes that ‘a reprehensible and offensive incident occurred that absolutely should not have happened’.
Whether the members in question did have a permit Anthony Hoogeveen, police spokesperson, doesn’t know yet. But it’s theoretically possible, he says. Permit holders do have to meet various requirements before they’re allowed to shoot pigeons. ‘They definitely can’t just go outside and shoot a pigeon.’
Wild rock doves
It is allowed to chase away some species. One of these is the wild rock dove. It’s suspected the pigeons the students are holding are of this species. They do not fall under the nature conservation law, because there are so many of them.
Hoogeveen can’t confirm whether the pigeons in the photo are definitely wild rock doves. But even then, people have to contact the city and make arrangements about chasing them off.
Consequences
The Animal Party, which is on the city council, thinks the students broke several laws and wants the mayor to take action.
Whether the association board knew about the students’ actions beforehand is unclear. In its statement, the club writes that it disapproves of the behaviour entirely. ‘It is therefore likely that this will have consequences for the members and board members involved.’