No, feeding wild pigeons in Greece is prohibited under the 2026 amendments to Law 4756/2020, which aligns with EU biodiversity directives. Local authorities, including municipal environmental protection units, enforce fines up to €5,000 for violations, citing risks to public health and urban ecosystems.
Key Regulations for Feeding Wild Pigeons in Greece
- National Wildlife Protection Law (4756/2020): Explicitly bans feeding wild birds, including pigeons, in public spaces to prevent disease transmission and ecological disruption.
- Municipal Ordinances: Cities like Athens and Thessaloniki enforce stricter local bans, with penalties ranging from €1,000 to €3,000 for repeat offenders.
- EU Habitat Directive Compliance: Greece’s 2026 regulatory updates integrate EU mandates, restricting feeding to licensed wildlife rehabilitation centers only.
Violations are typically reported via municipal hotlines or environmental inspectorate patrols. Exemptions exist solely for licensed ornithologists conducting research under permits issued by the Ministry of Environment and Energy. Non-compliance may trigger administrative sanctions or criminal charges under public health statutes.