Introduction
Pest birds like pigeons, sparrows, starlings, and seagulls are a common nuisance for property owners in Edmonton. While many people view them as simply an unsightly annoyance, these birds can actually pose serious health risks to humans. It’s crucial to have bird removal services address bird infestations promptly because bird droppings are a breeding ground for disease-causing pathogens and parasites that can spread infections, trigger allergic reactions, and contaminate food sources. Some may try to fix these problems on their own, but professional bird control services is no easy task. Our goal at All About Pests is to minimize these health hazards to ultimately keep your property safe. Amongst many things, a bird barrier is a common tool we use to reduce the presence of nuisance birds.
Diseases Transmitted by Pest Birds
According to the Internet Center for Wildlife Damage Management, bird droppings can harbor over 60 transmittable diseases. When dried droppings are disturbed, microscopic particles containing these pathogens become airborne and can be inhaled or come into contact with skin. Some of the most concerning diseases associated with pest birds include:
- Histoplasmosis – A respiratory disease caused by a fungus that grows in pigeon droppings. Symptoms include fever, chills, headache, and fatigue. In severe cases, it can lead to high fever, blood abnormalities, pneumonia and even death.
- Cryptococcosis – Another fungal disease spread by pigeon feces. It can cause skin irritation, ulcers, and lung infections. People with compromised immune systems are especially vulnerable.
- Salmonellosis – Bacteria found in bird droppings can cause diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. Pigeons and sparrows are common carriers.
- E. coli – Commonly spread through bird feces, this bacteria strain can cause intestinal illness, urinary tract infections, and even meningitis.
- St. Louis encephalitis – Mosquitoes that feed on infected birds can transmit this viral infection to humans, causing fever, headaches, and in severe cases, brain inflammation and death.
Parasites and Ectoparasites
In addition to diseases, pest birds can carry parasites and ectoparasites that pose health risks:
- Mites – Bird mites can invade buildings and bite humans, causing skin irritation and rashes.
- Fleas and Ticks – Birds can introduce these parasites to your property, which then latch onto pets or humans, spreading diseases like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
- Bed Bugs – Pigeons and starlings have been found to carry bed bugs, which can infest homes and feed on human blood, causing itchy bites.
Food Contamination and Allergic Reactions
Pest birds can also contaminate food sources with their droppings, leading to illness if ingested. Salmonella is the most common food poisoning risk associated with bird feces.
Nesting materials and bird dander can also trigger allergic reactions or asthma attacks in sensitive individuals when particles circulate through air handling systems.
Property Damage and Liability Risks
The acidic nature of bird droppings can corrode metals, rot wood, and stain building materials. Over time, this weakens structures and leads to costly repairs. Nests built in chimneys or electrical equipment can pose fire hazards.
Accumulated bird droppings on walkways and entryways create dangerous slip-and-fall conditions, which can put you at risk for legal liability if someone is injured on your property. Pest control in Edmonton is highly sought after for professional services to keep you and your loved ones healthy and safe.
Bird Removal Services and Deterrents are Key
To minimize health risks and property damage, it’s essential to address bird infestations as soon as possible by enlisting professional bird removal services. Trained technicians have the tools and expertise to safely remove nests and droppings while avoiding direct contact themselves. They can then implement humane deterrents to keep birds from returning, such as:
- Exclusion methods – Sealing off openings and installing barriers like bird netting and wire mesh to prevent birds from accessing nesting sites
- Sensory deterrents – Visual scare devices, predator decoys, and sound machines that emit distress calls and predator cries to frighten birds away
- Taste aversions – Non-toxic chemical gels that make surfaces sticky or taste bad to discourage birds from landing and roosting
- Habitat modification – Changing the environment to be less attractive to birds, such as removing standing water and securing trash
Protect Your Property and Health
Don’t underestimate the health hazards posed by pest birds. Proactive bird control not only maintains a clean, professional appearance for your property but also safeguards the well-being of your family, employees, customers, or tenants. It’s also important to keep your pets safe while a technician is taking care of the birds so if you need to transport your pet for the day, contact our partners at Paws en route for the best pet transportation service.
Partner with a reputable bird removal services company in Edmonton (like All About Pests) to develop a customized plan that eliminates current infestations and prevents future problems. Keep your property clean, safe, and healthy by making bird control a priority.