In the small German town of Limburg, a conflict has erupted between residents and animal rights activists over whether to cull pigeons.

Despite a recent referendum where the majority of residents voted in favor of culling, town officials are still undecided on implementing the results.

Town spokesman Johannes Laubach stated that there will be a thorough review before any action is taken.

The pigeon issue has long frustrated residents and business owners, particularly around the central Neumarkt square, due to the birds’ droppings.

A count revealed about 700 pigeons living in the town, the Associated Press has reported.

Last November, the town council decided to hire a falconer to reduce the pigeon population by breaking their necks, sparking protests and a petition from animal rights activists, leading to the referendum.

Following the referendum, Limburg’s mayor, Marius Hahn, announced that the citizens had chosen to reduce the pigeon population over the next two years using a falconer.

However, animal rights groups condemned the decision, labeling it a “death sentence” and threatening legal action.

Written by B.C. Begley