![Maltese Pigeons Dislike Being Around Modern Buildings](https://maltadaily.mt/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/pigeonweb.jpg)
A study published in Xjenza Online Volume 10 Issue 2 conducted the first investigation into the abundance and distribution of feral pigeons in Malta using the distance sampling technique, correlating findings with urban environmental characteristics.
Spanning from May to August 2020, surveys covered five districts, revealing sparse but widespread distribution, indicating ubiquity in urban environments across Malta.
Highest abundance was observed in towns around Valletta, aligning with previous studies suggesting the spread of the Valletta population.
Distance sampling provided estimates of pigeon abundance in specific urban environments, showing a preference for local centres and public open spaces.
Factors influencing feral pigeon occurrence included resource distribution (food, water, shelter). Interestingly, modern buildings negatively correlated with abundance.
Surprisingly, old buildings did not show a significant relationship either.
The study suggests that the feral pigeon’s affinity for public open spaces in towns, particularly parks, may be influenced by a calmer ambiance offering more feeding opportunities and less stress.
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