No. Feeding wild pigeons in New Hampshire violates state wildlife regulations under RSA 212-A:17, which prohibits the unauthorized provision of food to migratory birds. Local ordinances in municipalities like Manchester and Nashua further restrict feeding to curb nuisance populations and public health risks. Violations may result in fines up to $500 under NH Fish and Game Department enforcement protocols.
Key Regulations for Feeding Wild Pigeons in New Hampshire
- RSA 212-A:17 Compliance: State law explicitly bans feeding migratory birds, including pigeons, without a permit from the NH Fish and Game Department. Permits are rare and typically reserved for scientific or conservation purposes.
- Local Ordinances: Cities such as Portsmouth and Concord have enacted stricter measures, including outright bans on feeding pigeons in public spaces to mitigate property damage and disease transmission risks.
- Public Health Exemptions: Even charitable feeding initiatives may face penalties if deemed to exacerbate urban pest issues, as outlined in NH Department of Health and Human Services guidelines effective 2024.
Enforcement actions often target repeat offenders, with penalties escalating for violations occurring near schools, parks, or commercial districts. The NH Fish and Game Department’s 2026 compliance directives emphasize education over punitive measures, but non-compliance remains a prosecutable offense under state wildlife statutes.