For a long time, the central areas belonged to the pigeons. They perched on ledges, besieged train stations, fluttered over market squares, and turned historic facades into their personal residence. In many French cities, this almost seemed like a natural law. But now another shadow looms over the sky in Troyes: that of the peregrine falcon.
And that shadow disturbs the familiar order.
In the city’s cathedral, a pair of falcons now officially lives. Very high, more than forty meters above the ground, a nesting box was even installed. At first glance, this seems romantic, almost like a small return of wild nature among the Gothic towers and old roofs. But behind it hides a very hard urban policy.
Because pigeons cost money. A lot of money.
Their droppings damage stone facades, dirty the squares, and deteriorate historic buildings. Municipalities invest enormous amounts annually in cleaning and maintenance. Especially in cities with protected architecture as heritage, the costs quickly add up. That is why the idea sounds quite logical: why not bring back the natural enemy?
The peregrine falcon is perfect for this. It is considered one of the fastest hunters in the world and causes unrest among pigeons just by its presence. Experts talk about the so-called “deterrent effect.” The birds perceive a constant danger, change their flight paths, and gradually abandon certain areas. It is not necessary to capture them en masse or resort to controversial sterilization programs; instead, nature regulates the problem on its own. Quite clever, actually.
Especially impressive is the story of this comeback. In the 1970s, the peregrine falcon was on the brink of extinction in France. Pesticides and habitat destruction decimated the population massively. Today, this bird of prey is rediscovering cities. And biologically it makes sense: the tall church towers, modern skyscrapers, or industrial facilities resemble the rocky cliffs where the animals used to nest.
The city replaces the mountain.
Some residents watch the falcons with almost childlike excitement. Ornithologists stand with binoculars in the squares, families stop in front of the cathedral to look up. This also changes the perception of the city itself. Amid asphalt, traffic, and concrete, the feeling arises again that nature does not only exist in the countryside.
Probably therein lies the true fascination. The peregrine falcon is more than an elegant pest controller. It symbolically represents a new idea of urbanity: a city that does not completely eliminate animals, but tries to live with them.
And the pigeons?
They are gradually realizing that the sky over Troyes no longer belongs to them exclusively.
Andreas M. B.