Catapult Cruelty: Pigeons Targeted in TikTok Trend

A worrying trend involving catapult attacks on pigeons has led to injuries and fatalities, according to a wildlife rehabilitation center. Over the past four weeks, the Vale Wildlife Hospital and Rehabilitation Centre has recorded incidents, noting that actual numbers are likely higher. These attacks are linked to a concerning social media trend where individuals film themselves harming wildlife.

This situation has prompted animal welfare charities to advocate for stricter regulations. Naturewatch Foundation is campaigning for retailers and the government to prevent under-18s from purchasing catapults and slingshots online. They highlight that these weapons are unregulated, with no minimum age for purchase or controls on their sale or power.

Modern catapults possess lethal force, and their misuse is causing significant harm to wildlife, including swans, birds, and domestic pets. A pigeon brought in on February 17th, 2026, had to be euthanized due to an infected wound. Another pigeon, hit by children on March 2nd, 2026, is recovering. The government states that harming wild birds is illegal and that catapults should not be used for such purposes.