Swarming pigeons fight and feast over food at Kowloon Park in viral video

A day after pigeons swarmed meals in a viral video, peace returned to Kowloon Park's outdoor dining area Tuesday morning, with both diners and staff keeping a closer watch on the plates.

The video circulating online since yesterday captured dozens of pigeons flapping and squabbling over fries and soft drinks on tables, undeterred by nearby diners waving them away.

However, the same scene went way quieter this morning—only a few birds paced the ground, and staff were regularly clearing away leftovers and wiping down tables.

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Patrons in the outdoor section were sparse. Several pigeons lingered nearby, and one was even spotted landing next to a diner—but made no attempt to snatch food.

“They rarely bother people who are still eating,” said Lam, a nearby resident.

Lam pointed out that the pigeons flock only when leftovers are accessible, but are also sometimes fed intentionally–a practice, he observed, that has declined lately. 

He admitted that the congregation of pigeons has been a longstanding issue in the area, especially on hot days.

“The number of pigeons depends on the amount of food. They leave eventually if there is none,” he added.

In response, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) stated it has received two complaints about pigeon nuisance at the park’s restaurant area over the past three years. 

The department confirmed that regular patrols to deter illegal feeding are conducted and that a joint operation against the practice took place last year.

Furthermore, the restaurant contractor has been instructed to enhance staff patrols, promptly clear food waste, and implement pigeon repellent on the floor.

The LCSD has also ensured close communication with the contractor to prevent further congregation of pigeons and has installed signage reminding the public not to feed them.

Under the 2024 amendment to the Wild Animal Protection Ordinance, feeding wild pigeons is now illegal, with maximum penalties of a HK$100,000 fine and one year’s imprisonment, as well as a HK$5,000 fixed penalty.