Pigeon coop brings rats, neighbors say
When rats showed up in a Merrick neighborhood, some residents said birds are to blame: specifically, pigeons.
Neighbors feared the rodents' presence was the result of a nearby pigeon coop.
Rats, after all, are always in search of the next meal and a place to shelter, and the presence of pet food and waste, even bird droppings, can be an attraction. Backyard structures such as
coops and sheds provide space for burrowing.
A provision in Hempstead Town Code, dating to 1973, says "no premises may be used or occupied and no structure erected or maintained for the harboring of pigeons" as well as a number of other animals, ranging from ducks to snakes. Skunks, too.
The town told us early last month that proceedings were underway to get rid of the birds: The property owner had been issued a notice of violation and given a summons to appear in court.
Recently the town reported that an inspector had visited the property and said that the birds were gone and the coop was in the process of being dismantled. The case is due in court Tuesday.
For now, the Nassau County Department of Health has offered neighbors advice on steps to take to keep rats from finding their yards enticing.
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