Pigeons Can Be Used to Measure Pollution

Studies conducted in pigeons in Jaipur City show that Pigeons can be used to measure a city of pollution. According to researchers at the University of Rajasthan, in Northern India, "Heavy metal in the home enter the pigeon's feathers, and remain even after the pigeon feathers are shed." New Delhi's Gobar Times explains that since pigeons usually live in a fixed area, the levels of cadmium, chromium, copper and lead detected in their feathers may be an accurate indicator of local pollution.


Pigeons have a 35 year maximum life span. They more adapt to living on coastal cliffs, buildings in towns and cities. Last 2006, a science project conducted in Northern California used Pigeons to monitor pollution in the Northern California skies. Attached with backpacks containing sensors, GPS and a cellphone they are released to monitor the air composition of a certain location.

Cool.