Pigeons, especially feral rock doves, often carry the reputation of being “rats with wings.” While domesticated pigeons are no riskier than any other bird, feral pigeons in Brisbane can pose health hazards due to the buildup of their droppings.
Are Pigeons Actually Dirty?
- Clean Birds, Dirty Habits: Pigeons bathe and keep their nests tidy, but scavenging in bins and urban waste exposes them to contaminants.
- Dropping Volume: A single pigeon can excrete over 11 kg of droppings per year, which accumulates quickly in roosting areas.
- Perching vs. Flying: Pigeons defecate while perched or walking, meaning droppings often concentrate under roosting sites.
What Diseases Are Linked to Pigeons?
The real health risks come from inhaling or handling pigeon droppings, which can harbor fungi and bacteria.
Common Pigeon-Borne Diseases
| Disease | Cause | Symptoms |
| Cryptococcosis | Cryptococcus neoformans fungus | Lung infection, meningitis, flu-like symptoms |
| Psittacosis | Chlamydia psittaci bacterium | Fever, chills, pneumonia-like symptoms |
| Histoplasmosis | Histoplasma capsulatum fungus | Respiratory illness, flu-like signs |
| Salmonella | Fecal contamination (faecal-oral) | Food poisoning, diarrhea |
| Campylobacteriosis | Faecal bacteria exposure | Gastrointestinal infection |
Note: People with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing cancer treatment or with HIV, are at higher risk.
Why Pigeon Droppings Are a Health Hazard
- Fungal Growth: Droppings provide a fertile environment for harmful fungal spores.
- Airborne Transmission: When droppings dry, disturbing them can release dangerous spores into the air.
- Corrosive Damage: Pigeon droppings can corrode metal, paint, and roofing materials over time.
How to Clean Pigeon Droppings Safely
- Wet the Droppings: Always dampen droppings to avoid inhaling airborne dust.
- Wear Protective Gear: Use gloves, masks (P2 or N95), and protective clothing.
- Use Proper Disposal: Place droppings and cleaning materials in sealed bags.
- Professional Cleanup: For large or hazardous accumulations, call professionals who have the right equipment and safety training.
Controlling Feral Pigeons Around Your Property
Pigeon infestations should be addressed by:
- Blocking Access: Seal ledges, eaves, and nesting sites.
- Installing Bird Spikes or Netting: Prevent perching and roosting.
- Using Humane Deterrents: Avoid harmful or illegal control methods.
Need Help with Pigeons in Brisbane?
Feral pigeons are more than just a nuisance—their droppings can spread disease and damage property. Peter the Possum Man provides safe, humane pigeon control and thorough cleanup of droppings across Brisbane.
Contact us now for a free quote on pigeon removal and proofing.
