Feb 14 • 21:05 UTC 🇳🇴 Norway Aftenposten

For many, they are 'rats with wings'. But she takes sick pigeons home. Join us inside one of Oslo's many bird hospitals.

Two volunteers in Oslo rehabilitate sick and injured city birds, emphasizing the importance of caring for these often-misunderstood animals.

In Oslo, volunteers Trine Labahå and Mai Amundsen operate a makeshift bird hospital within their own homes, dedicated to the rehabilitation of sick and injured city birds, particularly pigeons. This organization, known as Fugleadvokatene, highlights the often divisive perception of pigeons, with some referring to them as 'rats with wings.' Despite this negative view, Labahå and Amundsen see these birds as deserving care and attention, and they focus on rescuing and rehabilitating them for a better quality of life.

Last year, Fugleadvokatene managed to help over 1,000 birds in Oslo, showcasing the impact that dedicated individuals can have on local wildlife. The volunteers diligently watch for signs of illness among the pigeon population, including unusual behavior such as puffed-up feathers or solitary standing, which may indicate sickness. The duo's work not only aids the birds but also raises awareness among the public about the conditions these animals endure, fostering empathy and understanding.

The efforts of Labahå and Amundsen also raise important questions about urban wildlife conservation and the challenges birds face in city environments. While pigeons are often seen as a nuisance, this narrative shifts as more people become aware of the care that goes into rescuing and rehabilitating these animals. Their commitment encourages community members to reconsider how they view and interact with the wildlife in their urban landscapes, pointing towards a more compassionate approach to coexistence with city-dwelling birds.

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