LOOK UP LOOK UNDER

Birds can become trapped in damaged netting under bridges.
A moment of awareness can make a difference.

HOW TO HELP LEARN MORE

THE PROBLEM

Bird netting under bridges is meant to control pigeons humanely. But when it's damaged, poorly installed, or unmaintained, it becomes a trap. Birds get tangled, can't escape, and suffer.

This happens more often than most people realise. Pigeons, starlings, and other urban birds can become entangled and unable to free themselves.

By being aware of this issue, you can help by simply paying attention when walking under bridges.

Damaged and torn bird netting hanging loosely under a bridge, showing the type of hazard that can trap birds

Damaged netting becomes a deadly trap for birds

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Four simple steps to make a difference

A person looking up and taking a photo of bridge netting with their phone in London, with a red bus visible in the background
1

LOOK UP

When walking under a bridge, take 5 seconds to look up and check for damaged netting

2

NOTICE THE SIGNS

Look for:

  • Torn netting
  • Loose mesh
  • Gaps in installation
  • Birds trapped or unable to escape
3

DOCUMENT

If it's safe to do so:

  • Take a photo
  • Note the exact bridge location
  • Record the date and time
4

SPREAD AWARENESS

Share information about this issue with friends, family, and your community

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Learn to recognise the difference between safe and dangerous netting

Properly installed bird netting that is tight, secure and well-maintained SAFE

Properly Maintained Netting

  • Tight and secure installation
  • No visible gaps or tears
  • Birds cannot enter or get trapped
  • Regular maintenance evident
Damaged and torn bird netting with large gaps that can trap birds DANGEROUS

Damaged Netting

  • Torn, sagging or loose sections
  • Visible gaps and holes
  • Birds can enter but may not escape
  • Neglected maintenance

WHO'S RESPONSIBLE FOR LONDON'S BRIDGES?

Different organisations manage different bridges across London

Transport for London (TfL)

Manages most major road bridges across the Thames

Waterloo Bridge Westminster Bridge Lambeth Bridge Vauxhall Bridge

Network Rail

Responsible for all railway bridges

Blackfriars Railway Bridge Cannon Street Railway Bridge

City of London Corporation

(City Bridge Foundation)

Manages 5 historic bridges

London Bridge Blackfriars Bridge Southwark Bridge Millennium Bridge Tower Bridge

Local Borough Councils

Manage smaller local bridges and footbridges within their areas

Greenwich Council Wandsworth Council Richmond Council

Some footbridges are also owned by private companies or developers.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

No. Properly installed and maintained netting is legal and humane. The problem occurs when netting is damaged, poorly installed, or left unmaintained. Well-maintained netting effectively manages bird populations without harming them.

No. Do not attempt to remove netting or rescue birds yourself. It can be dangerous for both you and the bird. Damaged netting may be unstable, and trapped birds can panic and injure themselves further. Professional wildlife rescuers have the proper equipment and training.

All wild birds in the UK are protected by law under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. When birds become trapped in poorly maintained netting, they can suffer for days. Raising awareness helps ensure these issues get noticed and addressed.

Share this website with friends and family. Talk about the issue with people you know. The more people who know to look up when walking under bridges, the more likely these problems will be noticed.

SPREAD THE WORD

Help others learn about this issue

The more people who know to look up when walking under bridges, the more likely these problems will be noticed and addressed. Share this website with friends and family to help raise awareness about urban wildlife hazards.

Awareness is the first step toward change.