Cerveteri uses hawks to manage pigeon population at cemetery

Multiservizi Caerite has implemented an innovative, non-lethal strategy to manage pigeon colonies at the Nuovo Cemetery in Cerveteri. The initiative utilizes two Mexican buzzards, named Vittorio and Sonora, to deter pigeons through falconry.

The approach combines the presence of these raptors with semi-invisible protective netting installed near burial niches to discourage nesting. By inducing a sense of insecurity in the pigeons, the method encourages them to relocate and modify their habits without harming the local ecosystem.

According to Alessio Pascucci, Sole Administrator of Multiservizi Caerite, the intervention has already resulted in a reduction of stable pigeon presence by over 60% within the first few months of operation.