Brixton Brewery have launched an online petition to make pigeons the official bird of Brixton.
“For too long pigeons have been unfairly pigeon-holed,” says the petition on change.org.
“We believe it is time to ruffle some feathers and show our appreciation for the unfairly maligned feathered friends that flock to the streets of Brixton, and recognise their contribution to our community!
“Surely no bird is more Brixton than this humble yet compelling beast; embodying the same resilience, adaptability and love of a bit of fried chicken after a heavy night out.
“We believe that pigeons, too often dismissed as ‘rats with wings’, are in fact the perfect symbol of our neighbourhood’s untamed spirit!
“We cry fowl at the notion that they are any less majestic or worthy of our respect than an eagle. Would an eagle ever overcome the handicap of a deformed claw to make a life pecking up litter in our streets?
“These misunderstood birds have been companions to humans for thousands of years, serving as messengers, symbols of peace, subjects of art and unpaid alarm clocks cawing outside your bedroom window at the crack of dawn.
“Pigeons are not merely passive bystanders, but active participants in keeping our streets clean, taunting neighbourhood dogs and entertaining children with their irrepressible everyday hustle. They are an essential part of Brixton’s vibrant life and unique urban mix.”
The petition says that, according to the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, pigeons are resilient and intelligent, with a remarkable ability to adapt to urban environments.
“We believe pigeons deserve some positive press,” said Jez Galaun, co-founder of Brixton Brewery. “These birds are icons of city life, thriving in the same diverse, bustling environment that makes Brixton so special.
“By making them our mascot, we hope to challenge perceptions and celebrate their contribution to Brixton’s identity as a place for everyone, no matter where they are on the food chain or how many times we’ve seen them feasting on unrecognisable garbage.
“In recognition of the hard work and contributions of our high-flying fellow creatures and residents, we propose declaring the pigeon the official mascot of Brixton.
“Doing so will allow this humble yet noble bird to take its rightful place as an esteemed symbol of our community.
“We, the people of Brixton, can rise above the accepted narrative by showing our appreciation for these unsung heroes of the avian world.
So everyone – Brixton residents, Londoners, bird lovers and advocates of urban biodiversity – let’s stand together.
“Join the flight for recognition and sign this petition to make pigeons the official mascot of Brixton.”
