The ancient Egyptians considered them sacred, but the City of Cape Town is looking at killing some of Africa's most well-known and widespread indigenous birds to reduce their numbers.

It says the Egyptian geese that have taken up residence around the Sonstraal and Vygeboom dams in the Durbanville area need to be brought back into "sustainable equilibrium" with their environment.

"A final decision on the method ... has yet to be taken by the City of Cape Town," City Parks area manager Altus de Wet said.

The city would follow an "inclusive process" in this regard, and all relevant role players would be consulted prior to a final decision being made.

Asked how the birds would be killed, De Wet said: "If they have to be culled - as humanely as possible. They are fed a sedative and fall asleep."

Asked how many of the birds would be killed, he said no decision had been taken on the numbers.

Article Continues: IOL