Bavarian Nature Association Criticizes Shooting of Jackdaws and Nest Destruction in Dachau

The Bavarian Association for Bird and Nature Conservation (LBV) has condemned recent measures taken in Dachau to deter jackdaws through shooting and nest removal. The association is particularly concerned that approximately 20 birds were shot and 80 nests were destroyed during the breeding season, which violates nature conservation laws.

According to LBV, the Upper Bavaria Nature Conservation Authority has crossed a line by permitting the shooting of birds and the destruction of nests. The organization emphasizes that protection of birds under the EU Birds Directive and German Federal Nature Conservation Act, along with animal welfare, takes precedence. LBV considers the actions to be "pure activism" that only creates the illusion of a solution, is ineffective, and is questionable from an animal welfare perspective.

The association acknowledges the concerns of residents and farmers regarding noise, droppings, and crop damage caused by the birds. However, it stresses that shooting and nest removal are merely "pseudo-solutions" that do not resolve the problem long-term. LBV believes such actions may actually worsen the situation by creating new conflicts, such as splinter colonies that can lead to population dispersal.

LBV calls for addressing the root causes of the problem rather than focusing on symptoms. The organization states that the increasing presence of jackdaws in urban areas is a consequence of structural changes in the agricultural landscape and year-round food availability. The association advocates for non-lethal methods and emphasizes that long-term solutions must target the underlying issues, not the birds themselves. LBV supports differentiated approaches that consider both animal welfare and legitimate human interests.