Stop the practice of dyeing pigeons feathers, says environmental group

PETALING JAYA: The practice of dyeing rainbow colours on pigeon’s feathers is animal abuse, says environmental group, Sahabat Alam Malaysia (SAM).

This comes in light of the practice by a trader in Tumpat, Kelantan who dyed pigeon's feathers with rainbow colours before putting them up for sale.

"Pigeons naturally have pigments all over their bodies and this practice is a violation to the rights of the animal by traders who sell them for the purpose of making money," said SAM president Meenakshi Raman in a statement.

She added that applying synthetic paint to the bird’s feathers not only affected the natural environment between other pigeons but also left them without an opportunity to join the flock.

"Owners should be responsible for the welfare and needs of their animals under the Animal Welfare Act 2015 (Act 722).

"Therefore, we strongly urge the department of veterinary services to take legal action in regards to this otherwise traders will not stop this practice," she said.