Pigeons rehomed to a women’s prison

Loved and let go

Some 18 ex-racing pigeons were brought into our care in March 2021, after their owners' health began to deteriorate. RSPCA officers, Kirsten Ormerod and Brian Milligan, had already been caring for the birds in Kent, providing food and water until their owner – who loved the pigeons dearly – decided they could no longer care for them in the way they deserved. 

“The birds were very hungry and thirsty when we were called in to help them, and the conditions they were being kept in weren’t ideal”, Kirsten said of the pigeons’ home environment. “Unfortunately, the birds’ owners had been unable to provide the care they needed due to failing health and, although they loved their pets, agreed it would be best to sign them over to us so we could find them new homes.

It was a difficult decision for the owners, but one that was in the best interest of the birds. “We’re glad that we could be there to help them, and ensure the best outcome for the pigeons”, Kirsten added.

Homing pigeons ready for their new home

All 18 pigeons were taken in for specialist care at our Mallydams Wood Wildlife Centre in East Sussex. Mallydams Rehabilitation Team Manager, Richard Thompson, said of the pigeons’ progress since being brought in: “One had a small lump on their head that was removed by our vet. Some had feather loss on their chests, and matted faeces around their feet, but it didn’t take long until they were looking much healthier. They were all treated for lice, canker, coccidiosis and worm burdens before we set about looking for new homes for them.”

Pigeons looked after by prisoners

These homing pigeons found their way to a new home, behind bars. Not cages, but the women’s closed category prison and young offenders institution, HMP Foston Hall, in Derbyshire, where they have plenty of freedom to fly.

The 18 new additions joined approximately 40 pigeons already in the prison’s care, taken in from various backgrounds, including racing pigeons and specialised breeds. 

Now, they’re loved and looked after by the prisoners, who help to maintain the pigeon loft and care for the birds as part of an animal care course, run by the prison’s education provider.

It’s a story of rehabilitation for every kind.