Pigeon Legal Status

Rock doves "pigeons" are exempt from the migratory bid act (MBTA) of 1918, which was passed for the protection of migratory birds. Rock doves - Pigeons are classed as predatory birds under state rules.  Under another state rule (WAC 232-12-005), it is unlawful to hunt for or take rock doves without a hunting license, except as allowed under RCW 77.36.030.  RCW 77.36.030 allows rock doves causing property damage to be trapped or killed without a hunting license. 

This information was provided by the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife, Russell Link, and Michael Holmquist