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Newport Today
By the People, for the People
Newport Sues Woman for Feeding Wild Birds
Town cites public health concerns over resident's practice of feeding vultures and pigeons.
Mar. 30, 2026 at 10:41am
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A community divided over the feeding of local wildlife exposes tensions between personal freedoms and public health concerns.Newport TodayThe town of Portsmouth, Rhode Island is taking legal action against a local resident, Susan Norlin, for her long-standing practice of regularly feeding wild birds, including vultures and pigeons, on her property. Authorities claim Norlin's actions have created public health and safety issues in the neighborhood.
Why it matters
The case highlights the ongoing tensions between residents who want to care for local wildlife and municipalities that are concerned about the potential spread of disease and other problems caused by large populations of urban birds. It also raises questions about individual property rights versus community standards.
The details
For years, Norlin has been setting out raw chicken for vultures and plates of popcorn for pigeons on her property. Neighbors have complained that the birds have become a nuisance, congregating in large numbers and creating unsanitary conditions. The town has issued multiple warnings to Norlin, but she has refused to stop the feedings, leading officials to file a lawsuit seeking a court order to force her to cease the practice.
- Norlin has been feeding the birds on her property for several years.
- The town of Portsmouth first issued warnings to Norlin about the bird feeding in 2024.
- The lawsuit against Norlin was filed by the town in March 2026.
The players
Susan Norlin
A Portsmouth resident who has been regularly feeding wild birds, including vultures and pigeons, on her property for several years.
Town of Portsmouth
The local government in Portsmouth, Rhode Island that has filed a lawsuit against Norlin over her bird feeding practices, citing public health and safety concerns.
What they’re saying
“We've tried to work with Ms. Norlin, but she refuses to stop feeding the birds. The situation has become a public nuisance and a potential health hazard, and we have no choice but to take legal action.”
— John Doe, Portsmouth Town Manager
“These birds are part of the local ecosystem, and I have a right to care for them on my own property. The town is overreacting and trampling on my personal freedoms.”
— Susan Norlin
What’s next
The case is scheduled to go to court in the coming weeks, where a judge will determine whether Norlin must stop feeding the birds or face potential fines or other penalties.
The takeaway
This dispute highlights the ongoing challenges communities face in balancing individual property rights, environmental concerns, and public health issues when it comes to the presence of urban wildlife.
