THE days are numbered for a prestigious perching place for York's flourishing feathered friends.

Pigeon flocks have almost become a part of the furniture in York, with the birds gathering in most squares and open spaces.

St Helen's Square is no different, but most buildings are protected with anti-pigeon spikes.

The only spike-free structure is the Mansion House, meaning it is regularly populated by pigeons. But even that historic home could soon be pigeon-proof, after city planners applied to stick spikes on the front.

Mansion House resident Charles Hall, the Lord Mayor of York, is all for the scheme.

He said the front steps of the house were constantly coated with pigeon droppings, meaning they had to be scrubbed before any visitors arrive.

Natural chemicals in the droppings are damaging the house's paintwork and stonework.

Coun Hall said: "I am a bird lover. I am an RSPB member and have nine bird feeders in my garden. I always try to encourage birds. But we can't have property being damaged to this extent. I think there are sufficient roosting spaces for birds other than having to use the Mansion House."

Peter Brown, company secretary at York Civic Trust, said the trust was not concerned by the spike suggestion.

"Anti-pigeon spikes are quite discreet nowadays," he said.

The trust shared the Lord Mayor's concerns over damage to the building from droppings, Mr Brown added.

RSPB spokesman David Hirst said: "As far as I am aware the spikes do not harm the birds. Perhaps a wider strategy is needed to look at what is helping the pigeons to be as successful as they are."

Updated: 10:31 Friday, March 19, 2004