18th Annual State Capitol Complex Crow Dispersal Program to Begin Nov. 6. in Pennsylvania

HARRISBURG, Pa., Oct. 28, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Department of General Services is alerting the public of the use of whistling and exploding shells as part of the 18^th Annual State Capitol Complex Crow Dispersal Program set to start on Wednesday, Nov. 6.

The program will continue daily throughout the next few months between 5-7 p.m. until the crows have been dispersed.

"The Crow Dispersal Program is a vital part of the maintenance and safety of the Capitol Complex," Secretary Curt Topper noted. "However, the methods we use incorporate whistling and exploding shells, which we want the public to be aware of so they aren't alarmed when they hear them."

As the fall weather begins to set in, the Capitol Complex becomes a prime roosting location for crows, which can create slipping hazards for pedestrians due to the increased amount of crow waste on the sidewalks – especially in wet weather. In addition to maintaining safety on sidewalks, the crow dispersal program also helps reduce the damage that can be done by crow waste to exterior of the buildings throughout the Capitol Complex.

In order to ensure a safe environment for foot traffic in the Capitol Complex, DGS consulted with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to develop to develop specific, non-lethal anti-roosting measures. Capitol Police will discharge exploding shells and whistling devices to deter crows from roosting. The process is not harmful to people, crows, other animals or the environment.

For more information, visit the DGS Capitol Complex Crow Dispersal Program webpage, or call 717-787-3893.

Media contact: Troy Thompson, 717-787-3197

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of General Services

Related Links

http://www.state.pa.us