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Council approves $54,000 one-month falconry pilot to deter downtown crows
Summary
The council approved a staff-recommended one-month pilot contracting ViaWay Bird Control Services for $54,000 to deploy seven falcons as a humane deterrent to downtown crow overpopulation; staff said references can be provided and the city will evaluate effectiveness before any expansion.
The Galesburg City Council voted unanimously May 19 to approve a one-month falconry pilot aimed at reducing downtown crow overpopulation.
City Manager Steve Hansen described the $54,000 proposal from ViaWay Bird Control Services as an "environmentally responsible solution" that would deploy a team of seven trained falcons across downtown sites for roughly one month as a nonlethal deterrent. "This natural approach harnesses the inherent predator–prey dynamic between falcons and crows," Hansen said, and staff recommended the contract as a pilot to test effectiveness.
Council members sought references and asked whether the measure would be a recurring cost. Hansen said references were available and that the intent was to pilot the program for one month before committing to a longer-term contract. "The intent was to try it this year to see first if it worked, not to commit the city into any long term arrangement," he said.
Supporters emphasized humane treatment and nonchemical methods; one council member said he would rather try a humane (but costly) option than poison. The council approved the proposal 6–0 by roll call.
The pilot is described as a focused, targeted, and potentially expandable response if it proves effective; staff said the program avoids chemicals and loud noise and can be controlled by trained handlers.
