Carshalton Pigeon Man becomes Instagram Sensation

EXCLUSIVE Meet Gaz – better know by the handle @Woodywoodpigeon. What started as a small hobby, has now really taken on wings. Gaz loves pigeons and photographs them daily for other pigeon-followers to enjoy across the world. He even helps care for birds with an illness or a disability.

Secret Carshalton found out more.

So Gaz, you’ve clearly discovered a passion for pigeons, but when did you first start photographing them, how did you get interested in it?

“Very good question! It was during the covid lockdown, when had more time at home and window gazing at wildlife became a hobby. I bought myself a half decent camera, as had a good end of year bonus at the time. Had a few lovely squirrels and woodpigeons come for some seed, nuts and corn (which I happily provided).”

“It started with the woodpigeon I named Woody (original I know!). After some photos, it started becoming lots of photos, and it led to starting an Instagram account to log them online (@woodywoodpigeon). Since then, I have multiple flocks visiting and now birds come to see me all day long. That and the trips I do into the local Carshalton wilds to keep them well fed, it’s fair to say I have bird friends all over!”

“The interest has built up slowly over the last few years and now find myself helping feed these birds full time at the moment. Also some caring for ones with illness and disability and even the occasional local rescue request comes in… (some may have seen me recently in wellies in the middle of the Wandle at the Grove)! That was for baby tufted ducks washed downstream, but I have a care for any birds or animals in need.”

Do you name the birds, and why?

“People are often amazed I can name them.. how do you tell the difference…? When either observing distinct behaviour or small visual differences, it’s easy. I find some birds have no name, whereas others who see me regularly and are distinct, usually end up with a quirky name they go by. You can see many of the local named birds on my Instagram page, for photos and videos!”

I think pigeons are resourceful and clever birds, but this question is for the non-believers out there. What would you say to people who are anti-pigeon, or may think of them as vermin?

“A really good point I’m always happy to dig down into. Many people live busy lives daily. Hustle and bustle and all. I too have been there. You only see what you have time to see. If all you see is droppings on your car and pavement, a first thought would be ‘what pests’. Especially if your car has been tagged by a larger wood pigeon, haha. You are right in saying they’re clever, they also have individual personalities, are loving, caring and sharing, raising young in nests just like every other bird and animal.”

“All wild animals also have pests, fleas, or mites, just like your pet cat or dog, only the pigeon is clever enough to eat some of them in their vigorous daily cleaning! They have understanding and depth to their personalities. So much so, I’m currently writing a book on how to understand and befriend pigeons and woodpigeons.”

“Whether it’s birds in public needing a helping hand, or setting up garden feeders so you can also view, appreciate and learn more about Britain’s beloved birds. I’d advise to do some research into pigeons and their history and how have helped and worked alongside man. Carrier pigeons came before the Internet..  and at one time were the fastest message delivery. Especially essential during wartime! The only reason these birds have become urban and feral is due to man removing rock doves from their coastal habitat and releasing them when no longer needed. The Royals have a history of pigeon keeping, as does the boxing legend Mike Tyson!”

Has a pigeon ever injured you, or do you help injured birds?

“You have to be careful with any wild animals. Pigeons have claws that can scratch and said claws are not clean. So you must take precautions and also bring anti bac! A squirrel bit me in the Grove one time… I took a minute trying to open a nut bag and it launched 5 foot from the ground and onto my thumb. That I’d say injured me, but birds, no never. They are usually gentle, but some are always a bit too eager to land or peck you on the cheek! In the years that followed lockdown I never had any illnesses with the time spent up and close with birds. Yet soon as I socialise with people… I’ve currently had 3 viruses in the last 6 weeks…so who’s the vermin now?! 😀”

“I do help injured birds. I often look out for those string-footed by manmade waste, which really makes them lose digits and feet, it’s terrible. I’ve taken some to the lovely ladies at the Sutton Pigeon Recovery. They are amazing. I’m always happy to support them… and they’re also helpful when I need it too. I’ve done Instagram fundraisers for their help in the past. All of us who care for wild animals full time can use a helping hand, as all costs add up these days.”

Where is the best place in Carshalton to photograph pigeons and where else do you go?

“The beauty of this hobby is how common these birds are, everywhere! Whether it’s urban birds in a high street, or nesting more residentially in a garden. I have my favourites out in our local public parks that fly to me on mass, as they can spot me over 100m away with ease. I’m occasionally referred to as the pigeon man in our local parks, which I find amusing, but shows I do frequent our local wilds often… and yes you can take a photo or video, but people are kind enough to usually ask.”

Thanks for your time Gaz. To follow his story go to @woodywoodpigeon. It’s suprisingly touching the bonds we can make with nature on our doorstep. Did you enjoy reading this post? Let us know your thoughts below.