They may look like birds of a feather but one is completely plume-free.

This plastic owl, fixed to the bridge near Debenhams and the Thistle Hotel, in Swindon, was designed to scare off roosting pigeons.

But judging by the pigeon taking a breather on its head, this owl is just a real pussycat.

The 18-inch birds were attached by Swindon Council eight years ago.

Kevin Rickards, a senior maintenance technician, said the owls had reduced the number of pigeons nesting near level three of Fleming Way car park.

Mr Rickards, 35, said: "They were very effective at the beginning but they seem to have become a bit commonplace with the pigeons.

"Since they were put up steel grills have been fitted. They can't roost in the same numbers they used to.

"I'm surprised no-one's made a comment about them before as they have been up for so long."