GET RID OF PIGEONS

 We began to install critter guard because of the urgency to protect yours and our loved ones. The dangers from pigeons is real and extremely harmful to children and seniors, both are more susceptible to health conditions
Pigeons are the #1 pest problem around the World. They speed-up building deterioration, not to mention that large amounts of Pigeon feces can kill vegetation. Destruction is just one of the problems caused by Pigeons. They are known to carry deadly diseases, such as Histoplasmosis, an airborne disease known to affect people. It’s best to keep feral Pigeons from roosting on and around your home and business.  Pigeon Proof offers a variety of control measures to fit your specific problem. We handle everything from clean up and sanitation of the area, to exclusion work which keep pigeons from nesting on your property. We provide the best installation possible for all installations. We like to assure there is no holes or gaps, all critter guard installations are cut and accurately measured to assure best fit possible along tiles and any other obstructions. We absolutely will not cut corners when it comes to the installation of our critter guard, We use the best materials possible to assure long lasting installation. Make sure to check out our work in the gallery below, we have some close-ups for you to view the quality we provide, some of those shots are not very pretty.  

Pigeons are everywhere in our cities; it is hard to imagine life without these social birds. However, one of the biggest environmental hazards comes with their presence – pigeon droppings. While pigeon poop is an irritant and an eyesore, it is also a serious concern.

The presence of pigeon droppings can pose serious health risks. Inhaling dust or water droplets containing contaminated bird feces can develop illnesses such as psittacosis, which can cause flu-like symptoms.

Let us delve into the potential hazards associated with pigeon droppings and the measures that can be taken to safeguard oneself and one’s property from harm.

How Dangerous Are Pigeon Droppings To Your Health?

Pigeon droppings are not only unsightly but also highly hazardous to human health. These birds are known carriers of many diseases and parasites that can ultimately end up in their droppings. If you have a pigeon infestation on your property, the chances of contracting an illness from their droppings become very high. It is essential to take quick and effective measures to handle the problem and eliminate the risk of illness. Contracting diseases and parasites from pigeon droppings is a real concern. Pigeons can carry more than sixty diseases and twenty ectoparasites that can cause various health problems in humans. The droppings, feathers, and other debris from infested roosting sites become breeding grounds for bacteria, fungi, and viruses, which all increase the risk of illness in humans.There are two possible outcomes of living with pigeons on your property, both of which pose a substantial health risk. Firstly, pigeon droppings will accumulate on your roof or property, and over time, the acidic droppings can wreak havoc on your property, causing substantial damage to roofing materials and solar panels. The second possibility is that the waste will eventually be tracked into your home, exposing everyone to the diseases, parasites, and contaminated air that come with it. 

Health Risks

Pigeon droppings are not only unsightly but also highly hazardous to human health, with birds carrying over 60 diseases and parasites, many of which can cause severe illness. Those who come in direct contact with bird droppings are at risk of potential health hazards. It is also advised that people with lung or other health conditions should avoid dried bird droppings as much as possible.

When dried Pigeon droppings are disrupted and become airborne, the resulting particles can irritate the bronchial passage, causing respiratory disease. Moreover, disturbing large quantities of dried bird poop can lead to the transmission of fungal diseases such as Histoplasmosis or Cryptococcosis. These diseases are caused by fungal spores within the poop and can even contaminate soil that is overexposed. Those who are most at risk are vulnerable people with pre-existing lung or immune system conditions, who should avoid situations where dried bird droppings may be aerosolized and stay clear of excavation, construction, or demolition work where large quantities of bird poop may be disturbed and cause potential health risks.

What are the Diseases and Who is at Risk?

Exposure to pigeon droppings can carry health risks, and two of the main diseases associated with this exposure are psittacosis and salmonella. Psittacosis is caused by bacteria found in both wild and domesticated birds and can result in pneumonia, while salmonella leads to an upset stomach and diarrhea. Although rare, both illnesses can be contracted through contact with pigeon droppings.

What Diseases Can You Get From Pigeon Poops?

Now that we’ve established how dangerous pigeon poop can be, let’s look at the diseases it can spread. Many serious illnesses can result from contact with pigeon droppings.

Histoplasmosis

Inhaling spores from contaminated soil or bird droppings results in a fungal infection known as histoplasmosis. It may result in flu-like symptoms such as fever, coughing, and discomfort in the chest. In extreme circumstances, it may result in death or persistent lung illness.

Cryptococcosis

This is an additional fungal infection that may be contracted from exposure to pigeon excreta. cryptococcosis affliction most commonly impacts individuals with weakened immune systems, including those with HIV/AIDS or organ transplant recipients.

Potential symptoms of this include fever, headaches, and fatigue. The infection may spread to the brain and cause meningitis in severe cases. It is essential to exercise caution and seek medical attention if such symptoms arise.

Salmonellosis

The presence of salmonella, a form of food poisoning, may be found in pigeon excrement. This bacterial strain can lead to various symptoms, like diarrhea, fever, and cramping of the abdomen, which can persist for up to a week. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required to treat the illness.

E. coli

The transmission of E. coli via contact with pigeon excrement is an additional bacterial concern. While its primary manifestation is typically diarrhea, the potential for more severe complications, such as renal impairment, exists.

What Are the Environmental Risks of Pigeon Poop?

Pigeon poop is not just a threat to human health but also a risk to the environment. Let’s take a closer look at the environmental risks associated with pigeon poop.

Soil and Water Contamination

The high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus in pigeon poop can pollute the soil and water. Pigeon waste can contaminate waterways and seep into the soil when it builds in significant quantities.

This can lead to the excessive development of algae and a decrease in the amount of oxygen available to aquatic habitats. The death of fish and other aquatic species may result from this.

Damage to Buildings and Monuments

Pigeon poop contains uric acid, which can erode and corrode buildings and monuments. Over time, this can weaken the structure of buildings and cause significant damage.

Historical monuments and buildings are particularly vulnerable to this type of damage, as the acid can cause irreversible harm to the structure and aesthetics of these important landmarks.

What Should You Do If You Come Into Contact With Pigeon Poop?

In the event of exposure to pigeon excrement, prompt measures must be taken to mitigate any potential health hazards. Below are guidelines for appropriate action:

Wear Protective Gear

Before cleaning up the poop, put on a pair of gloves and a face mask. This will help prevent bacteria or fungi from entering your body through the skin or respiratory system.

Clean up the Area

Use a paper towel or disposable cloth to pick up the poop. Make sure to dispose of it properly in a sealed plastic bag. Use soap and hot water to clean the affected area thoroughly.

Disinfect the Area when neccessary

After effectively removing the poop, it is recommended that the immediate area be thoroughly disinfected utilizing a solution consisting of a ratio of one part bleach to ten parts water. This measure serves to eliminate any residual bacteria or fungi that may still be present.

Avoid Touching Your Face

After handling the poop, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and hot water. Avoid touching your face or mouth to prevent any potential contamination.

Seek Medical Attention

In the event that exposure to pigeon droppings results in the onset of symptoms indicative of illness, such as elevated body temperature or respiratory distress, it is imperative to secure medical evaluation and treatment promptly.

How Can You Prevent Pigeon Infestations?

Prevention is key if you don’t want to deal with the mess and health hazards of pigeon poop. Here are some effective ways to prevent pigeon infestations:

• Block entrances and openings: Pigeons need a place to roost and nest, so block all potential entrances and openings with wire mesh.
• Eliminate food and water sources: These birds are attracted to food and water, so be sure to remove any food or water sources from the area (Unless there is a pool).
• Use bird spikes or repellent gel: These products can prevent pigeons from landing and roosting on surfaces. They can be installed on ledges, roofs, and other surfaces where pigeons tend to gather.
• Install scare devices: Visual and audio scare devices can deter pigeons from roosting in the area. These can include decoys, flashing lights, and loud noises.
• Hire a professional: If you’re dealing with a severe pigeon infestation, hiring a professional company like ours is best. We can safely remove the birds and provide long-term prevention solutions.

Conclusion

While pigeons may seem harmless, their poop poses severe health and environmental risks. Contact with pigeon poop can lead to various illnesses, and the buildup of droppings can damage buildings, monuments, and other structures.

Preventing pigeon infestations and taking proper precautions when cleaning up after them is essential for public health and our environment’s preservation.

If you come into contact with pigeon poop, take appropriate safety measures and seek medical attention. We can create a safer, healthier, and more sustainable environment for all by understanding the dangers of pigeon poop and taking steps to mitigate them.

Pigeon droppings are more than just an eyesore, as they can cause significant damage to buildings over time due to their highly acidic nature. Besides, if the accumulation is left unchecked, the excreta from these pests can cause floors or roofs to collapse, making homes unsafe for habitation. Furthermore, extensive droppings can contaminate food intended for both human and livestock consumption, posing a significant health risk to those who come into contact with it.

Pigeon droppings can also introduce a host of parasites, ticks, and other pathogens into their surrounding environments that may result in various diseases, making them a cause for concern for people living near high-rise buildings or apartment complexes. Pigeons’ unique mode of excreting nitrogenous waste — via uric acid in their droppings — makes it a respiratory irritant in humans, causing respiratory problems and discomfort.

People cleaning up after pigeons need to take specific precautions to avoid inhaling the dust caused by their droppings. Protective clothing, including a mask and goggles, is advisable when cleaning up their droppings, as inhalation of the dust and debris may cause various diseases like psittacosis, cryptococcosis, and histoplasmosis.

 Bird droppings can carry harmful pathogens, including bacteria and fungi, which can cause various health issues. Therefore, identifying a sick pigeon through its dropping can help prevent the spread of infectious diseases to other birds or humans. 

 Yes, pigeon poop can be toxic due to the potential transmission of diseases through contact with their droppings. These diseases include:

1. Histoplasmosis:

• This fungal infection is caused by inhaling spores from Pigeon droppings.
• Symptoms may range from mild respiratory issues to severe lung infections.
• Individuals with compromised immune systems are particularly vulnerable.

2. Cryptococcosis:

• Another fungal infection that can be contracted by inhaling dried pigeon droppings.
• It primarily affects the respiratory system but can spread to other body parts, including the brain.

3. Psittacosis:

• Although more commonly associated with parrots, pigeons can also carry the bacteria responsible for Psittacosis.
• This illness can lead to pneumonia-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, and difficulty breathing.

While the risk of contracting these diseases is relatively low, taking precautions when dealing with pigeon poop is essential, especially for individuals with compromised immune systems or respiratory issues. These issues MUST be addressed immediately, they are often overlooked as symptoms to some health issues.