By Faye Mayern
A major London train station has welcomed a feathery new employee to tackle its pigeon problem - a Harris hawk.
Oscar the hawk is set to visit London Euston for 'pigeon patrol' once a week over the summer with his handler to help deter the birds from setting up home in the station.
Commuters may have seen the Harris hawk during his familiarization training, but this will be his first official flight.
Oscar the Harris Hawk at Euston Station. (Network Rail via SWNS)
Pigeons have become a persistent issue at the station, often roosting, nesting, and feeding in areas used by passengers.
Harris hawks have made national headlines this year after one attacked more than 25 people in the village of Flamstead in Herts for weeks before it was captured.
However, Oscar will provide a 'humane' solution as it is hoped his presence will discourage the pigeons from settling in, and he will not harm them.
Oscar the Harris Hawk, with colleagues at Euston Station. (Network Rail via SWNS)
The station team has already noticed fewer pigeons in the station, which they say proves Oscar is effective at keeping the birds at bay.
Matt Ferguson, senior station interface manager for London Euston, said: "We're always looking for innovative ways to improve the station environment for our passengers, and Oscar is already proving to be a valuable member of the team.
"While he's visited Euston before, this marks his first official flight, and the early results are really encouraging.
(Network Rail via SWNS)
"We’ve already seen a noticeable drop in pigeon activity, helping us keep the station cleaner and more welcoming for everyone."
Oscar's handler, falconer Adel Letchford, added: "Oscar has taken to Euston like a pro - cool, calm, and already ruffling a few pigeon feathers.
"It's brilliant to see how quickly he’s made an impact, the pigeons are definitely getting the message and passengers seem to love spotting him on patrol."
