09/19/2025
I've been made aware of a racing pigeon with a broken leg band flying around the Marquette area. (Leg is healthy, identification band is broken)
I found the pigeon and I found the original owner. The owner has NOT been able to catch the bird and does NOT want the bird back now that the pigeon is;
1. Not returning to them
2. Not returning home
3. Seems to now be adopted into a smaller flock of feral pigeons (likely why it is showing fear to humans now, reacting to the feral pigeons' fear)
If you spot this pigeon, PLEASE DO NOT chase it, attempt to catch it, or harass it or its flock in any way! You will just cause extra stress to this bird and the others in the flock which can be dangerous, even deadly, for these birds. From what I observed- the band is broken off enough that it will likely fall off on its own. Especially with the pigeon preening at it and playing with it.
I will keep an respectively distanced eye on this new local pigeon and this small flock to ensure it stays healthy and decide whether or not I need to intervene.
Thank you 💕
