SO trapping and killing little birdies can be done in a ‘humane’ way can it, Wycombe District Council?

I suggest, however, that before it decides to euthanise pigeons in High Wycombe town centre, WDC first refrains from using such inappropriate words such as ‘humane’ in this context.

A report to councillors on the subject last week said: “The advice received from all companies contacted was that reducing the present pigeon population by trapping and humane destruction would be an essential part of any programme…”

Don’t know about you, but that sentence made me cringe. I’m no sandal-wearing vegetarian and I don’t even particularly like pigeons, but let’s at least not dress up their deaths in this way.

I looked up the meaning of ‘humane’ in both my desk and online dictionaries.

According to my Oxford School Dictionary, it means ‘kind-hearted and merciful’.

Wikipedia on the internet says: ‘Humane in early use meant civil, courteous or obliging towards humans and animals.

‘In modern times, it is characterised by sympathy with or consideration, compassion and benevolence for others, especially for the suffering and distressed.’ Presumably, council officials will justify its use in this context by saying their method of culling is ‘merciful’, but somehow I don’t think Mr and Mrs Pigeon – if they could speak – would agree that it’s kind-hearted, courteous, obliging or compassionate to slaughter them and their children, however gently it’s all done.

Perhaps I’m splitting hairs here, but as a humane human being living in High Wycombe I don’t want to put my name to this.

I’d rather have the inconvenience of my jacket being pooped on than knowing I’ve given sanction to killing animals for no other reason than they are a nuisance.

And, yes, I know they are a nuisance. The sight of them eating discarded takeaway chicken bones in the street has revolted me in the past.

But if we are to be truly humane, then perhaps we should live and let live rather than spending a bundle of money destroying them.

Call me soft, but as pigeons don’t have a voice, I think I may now become their champion.

The county council has the swan in its logo so how about campaigning to make the pigeon the emblem of WDC?