Don't Feed the Pigeons in Hancock

Pigeon-lovers in one Copper Country city might cry fowl at a new law. A new ordinance makes it illegal to feed pigeons in Hancock.

The ordinance arose from complaints that feeding pigeons within the city limits were drawing the birds into concentrated areas.

A few birds is no big deal, but a flock can cause serious damage to people’s property. How? Hancock resident John Haapala told the city council, that while his neighbor’s yard is the kitchen, his yard is used as the bathroom.

Violations are punishable by a $100 fine and/or by up to 90 days in the county jail. Penalties for feeding one species is cause for concern for some residents who like to feed other types of birds.

City Manager Glenn Anderson assured residents that the council’s action was aimed at residents intentionally feeding pigeons in their front yards.