International Pigeon Advocacy Conference 2026

🐦 What’s On at the International Pigeon Advocacy Conference 2026? 🐦

📍 Derby, England, UK

📅 Saturday 10th & Sunday 11th October 2026

Join pigeon lovers, rescuers, rehabbers and advocates from across the world for two unforgettable days celebrating, protecting and learning about pigeons.

Buy your tickets now!

✨ What to expect:

🌎 Inspirational talks from leading pigeon advocates from around the globe

🩺 Practical workshops — including string-foot care, rehabilitation skills and expert advice

🐦 Learn from experienced pigeon carers, rescuers and veterinary professionals

❤️ Hear powerful stories from activists changing the future for pigeons

🏠 Discover humane solutions such as pigeon houses — including talks from the incredible people helping to run successful projects in Prague

🕊️ Explore the reality of pigeon racing around the world, including the USA, and discuss what can be done to protect birds

💚 Find out what’s next for the National Pigeon Advocacy Association and the growing global movement for pigeon rights

Plus enjoy:

🛍️ Pigeon-themed shopping

🤝 Rehabber networking

💬 Community, connection and collaboration with people who truly understand and love pigeons

Join Sue the Pigeon Lady, Shakira Free Miles, Sam Crick and an amazing international lineup for the second International Pigeon Advocacy Conference.

Two days of learning.

Two days of inspiration.

Two days giving pigeons the voice they deserve.

🐦 Compassion for all.

Guests and speakers include:

Saturday Lineup:

  • Sue Joyce (NPAA Founder) – National Pigeon Advocacy Association Overview & Vision (@suethepigeonlady)
  • Iris Mackowiak – How to Love a Dove (@loveadoveuk / @notabirden)
  • Sam Crick – Dead Toe Society: Creative Activism for Pigeons (@dead.toe.society)
  • Aneesa Malik RVN – Pigeon Health: Understanding Common Infectious Diseases
  • Rory – Where Are All the Pigeon Vets? (@becomingpigeonvet)
  • Ems Hanley – The Wrong Side of the Tracks: Pigeons, the Railway and the Culls (@manchesterpigeonrehab)
  • Illy & Polly – Demeaned and Deformed: The Plight of Doves and Pigeons in the Pet Trade (@rescuenoretail)
  • Karolina Richterova – Humane Population Control: Healthier Flocks and Happier Pigeons (@karoll_ri)
  • Ashley Dietrich – Strategic Advocacy: Exploring the philosophical and sociological underpinnings of attitudes toward animals. How we can use framing, emotion, and visual language to change public perception of pigeons (@olives_place)
  • Jenna Close – Lost, Injured & Forgotten: The Reality of Pigeon Racing (@moosesflock)
  • Special guest talk: our patron - Stevie Martin (@5teviem) 

Sunday Lineup:

  • Kevin Newell – TRAPPED: The Fight to Save Our Urban Birds (@humanewildlifesolutions)
  • Chava Sonnier (Great Lakes Rescue) – The Distinction of Domestication
  • Aspen & Hannah / Philly Pigeon Tours – Living with Pigeons (@phillypigeontours)
  • Meg Germundson – Marketing and Psychology-Based Strategies in Fundraising (@olives_place)
  • Clare Kinder – Squabs, Squarks & Struggles: The Day to Day World of Sanctuary Life (@ladyhex13)
  • Matt O’Leary – Using Enrichment to Improve Welfare
  • Jenny Mason – Beginner's Pigeon Care Session (Workshop) (@safehavenwildlife)

Learn all about our speakers here...with more still to be announced!!

As before, all food and daytime beverages are included in the ticket price. We have kept the cost as low as possible – just enough to cover our expenses. 

All food is plant-based, and this is a vegan-led event, allowing us to be kind to everyone.

Last year's conference sold out, and although we have secured a much larger exclusive venue this year – The Derby Conference Centre – we would still recommend getting your tickets early to avoid disappointment.

Please keep an eye on our social media for speaker announcements and conference updates.