its an infection called bumblefoot,which pigeons are the birds that get it the most,although you see many wading birds with it and at penny there is a pied wagtail that has it in both feet and seems to only feed like a flycatcher in flight,bumblefoot is caused by a fungal infection,after slight damage to the foot,in pet birds vets will lance the infection and treat,but wild birds don't get better,and normally strugle on with it.

-- Edited by JOHN TYMON on Monday 10th of May 2010 10:04:39 AM

I have also seen many pigeons in the centre of Salford which have very severe injuries to their feet but I never thought that it would be due to frostbite but after this last winter you are probably correct Steve.

One suggestion I have heard is that they roost on cold stone or metal buildings at night and get frostbite.

While waiting for a bus at Wythenshawe bus station I noticed a large ammount of the Pigeons have injuries to their legs or feet,some very severe. Does anyone Know why this is and can it be prevented ?. It makes you feel sorry for the poor blighters.