An investigation into the possible poisoning of pigeons and other birds in the Exchange area of Dunedin has failed to find the source of the reported deaths.
The SPCA has been investigating recent calls from the public alleging pigeons and other birds in the area had appeared drowsy and some were dying. In another incident, a pigeon was rescued from Queens Gardens as it appeared to have been poisoned. It was treated and released.
Inspector Julie Richardson said it was thought the birds might have been poisoned by bait laid in the Exchange-Princes St-Vogel St area. An investigation had failed to find who was putting out the bait and why, she said.
"If someone is poisoning, it needs to be done in a controlled manner so the birds are not left to suffer," she said.
Public Health South did not believe any commercial operator was laying poison bait in the area.
Ms Richardson said it was not the first time such an incident had happened. A few years ago, pigeons were poisoned at the park near Dunedin Hospital's children's pavilion.
Then, about 20 birds were treated and released but the person responsible for the deaths was never found, she said.
Southern District Health Board public health general manager Pip Stewart said some over-the-counter products had a concentration of toxin which could sedate birds for up to an hour.
In some instances, non-target birds could be revived, but others might have already suffered a permanent injury or might be hit by passing vehicles.
"Hence, any operation, commercial or otherwise, must be carefully thought out, must have adequate supervision and must have clear signage at all entrance and public areas indicating that an operation is taking place."
If the person undertaking the poisoning was found, they could face fines ranging from $50,000 to $500,000 under the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act for infringements of regulatory controls.
