PORTLAND — The Portland City Council has approved an ordinance banning use of Avitrol or any other bird poison on city property, citing the danger to other wildlife, pets and people.
KATU-TV reports the city believes someone poisoned birds found in Northeast Portland last year. The council on Wednesday passed the ordinance introduced by Commissioner Nick Fish who called the poisons inhumane.
The Audubon Society of Portland says one alternative already in use by downtown’s Clean and Safe program uses a hawk to keep crows out of certain areas. The society says it’s much more effective and less dangerous.
On its website, the Avitrol Corporation contends the product can be used safely. The company didn’t respond to requests for comment by the TV station on the ban.
