Six pigeons have been found dead in Southampton’s Mayflower Park following the deliberate placement of an unknown poison in the area. A suspicious seed-like substance was discovered in the car park, which is believed to be the cause of the wildlife deaths.
Police were alerted early this morning by a concerned member of the public who noticed dead pigeons scattered around the park. Officers quickly cordoned off the site and awaited the arrival of Environmental Health teams.
Council workers conducted a thorough search, recovering six dead pigeons from two separate locations within the park. The toxic seed-like substance was also removed from the car park area.
Mayflower Park was reopened just after lunchtime, but local residents remain cautious. One dog walker said, “Even though the park’s reopened, I’d avoid walking here. You can’t be sure it’s completely safe.”
Paul Reynolds, leader of HART Wildlife Rescue Centre, expressed his concern, stating, “We are devastated to hear about the poisoning of pigeons at Mayflower Park. We’ve released rescued pigeons back here before. This has always been a safe haven for them. The cruelty shown is completely unacceptable. We hope those responsible are caught and punished to the fullest extent.”
Public Health England is now involved in the investigation. The dead birds and the suspicious substance will undergo toxicology tests to determine the exact nature of the poison.
Police have urged the public to avoid the park, especially when accompanied by pets and children, as efforts continue to make the area safe again.
Visitors are advised that if they find a sick or injured wild animal near the park, they should follow Public Health England’s guidance and contact a local wildlife rescue centre or vet immediately. Until authorities confirm the area is safe, the public should avoid entering the park.
Hampshire Police emphasised, “Please avoid attending the park, especially with dogs or small children. We’re working tirelessly with Environmental Health to restore safety.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
