Are Pigeon Feces Dangerous to Touch and Breathe?
Pigeon droppings (also called guano) can ruin the appearance of any garden or park. Bird droppings are extremely unaesthetic and overtime, dried guano will destroy the look of benches, roofs, walls, ledges, and footpaths, in fact anywhere the bird decides to do its business. Pigeon droppings are also acidic, and if left for a long time, they can corrode the surface of metal and limestone structures. Not only that, but there are also a number of diseases related to pigeon droppings.
Diseases associated with pigeon gunk:
If pigeon droppings are not cleaned up, there is the possibility of contracting the following diseases; Cryptococcosis, Histoplasmosis, and Psittacosis. These are not severe diseases, and the chance of getting them is pretty low, except during the months of March and July, which is their breeding period.
- Cryptococcosis neoformans is a common fungus found throughout the world. Most people do not get sick from its exposure. However, those with weak immune systems are at risk
- Histoplasmosis is an infection that is caused by fungus. It affects the lungs and the respiratory tract and can sometimes invade other parts of the body.
- Chlamydia psittaci is an infectious disease that humans can contract from birds.
If you have HIV/AIDS, autoimmune disease, or have a weak immune system, you should do your best to avoid pigeon droppings as you could be in greater risk.
How bad is pigeon gunk, really?
Although all these diseases can be incurred through contact with pigeon droppings, their likelihood is pretty low and the chance, if someone is contracting these diseases, is highly unlikely. In fact, scientists say that you have just as much chance of getting a disease from pigeon gunk as you can get from playing with your pet dog and cat.
The only serious chance you have, of getting ill from being near pigeon poop, is if you have a respiratory disorder. Old and dried pigeon gunk will create dust, which if inhaled can aggravate respiratory conditions even further. It is best to wear a dust mask while dealing with pigeon gunk if you are suffering from any symptoms. Or, wet the entire area first, so no dust is formed when you scrape the droppings.
Other reasons you should remove pigeon gunk:
The more rational reasoning for washing pigeon mess in your garden or from your roof is the messy look it gives. The smell can arise after a long time of pigeon mess sitting there. It will rot, and if it rains, the gunk will become soaked and create even more mess. Also, insects are attracted to animal excretion, which will create even more problems.
Also read our other bird tip:
How Much Is It For Pigeon Removal?