
Pigeons
It is safe to say that pigeons are among the most problematic pest birds that commercial property owners have to deal with regularly. Pigeons are dirty and unapologetic when deciding to make a commercial building into their nesting and roosting site. Pigeons are often called the “rodents” of the bird world, and for a good reason. These birds spread pathogens, damage structures, and are challenging to prevent. A light gray body, a beak that is grayish-pink in color, and two dark bars going across their wings help to identify pigeons.
It is common for pigeons to establish large populations in urban areas and commercial parks. They have learned the benefits of using roof ledges as roosting sites. However, buildings that pigeons are roosting on sustain damage to roof eaves, roof shingles, gutters, electrical equipment, and ventilation systems. Also, pigeons spread many diseases, including histoplasmosis caused by a fungus in their feces. They are covered in fleas, ticks, and mites that introduce onto properties where they’re roosting and feeding. Another unpleasant issue that pigeons cause is excrement buildup on roofs, which causes the erosion of metal and roofing materials. Their droppings will accumulate on the ground below also and create slip and fall hazards as well as being an eyesore.
Partnering with Bird Solutions is the best solution to your Florida commercial facility’s pigeon problems. In conjunction with our professional services, the following tips will help make your commercial property less attractive to pigeons.
- If your building has gutters, make sure to keep them free of debris to stop water from building up in them and providing pigeons a source of water.
- Keep lids on trash cans and dumpsters and make sure to empty them regularly.
- Ensure that outdoor eating areas for employees or customers are always kept free of food debris.
- Never place bird feeders on your commercial property, and never encourage the feeding of wild birds.
Pigeons, often referred to as “urban birds,” are a common sight in cities worldwide. While they may seem harmless and even charming to some, they pose various health and safety issues that need to be addressed. Below is an overview of these concerns:
Health Risks
- Diseases Spread by Pigeons: Pigeons can carry and transmit diseases to humans, primarily through their droppings, feathers, and nesting materials. Common diseases include:
- Histoplasmosis: A respiratory illness caused by a fungus found in pigeon droppings.
- Cryptococcosis: Another fungal disease associated with pigeon droppings, which can affect the lungs and nervous system.
- Psittacosis (Parrot Fever): Caused by bacteria transmitted through inhalation of dried pigeon droppings or secretions, leading to flu-like symptoms.
- Allergic Reactions: Pigeon feathers and droppings can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals, leading to respiratory issues such as asthma or hypersensitivity pneumonitis.
- Parasites: Pigeons can host ectoparasites, including mites, lice, and ticks, which may infest human living spaces and cause irritation or transmit diseases.
Safety Issues
- Slippery Surfaces: Accumulated pigeon droppings on sidewalks, building ledges, or stairs can create slippery surfaces, increasing the risk of slips and falls.
- Structural Damage: Pigeon droppings contain uric acid, which is highly corrosive. Over time, it can erode metal, stone, and concrete, compromising the structural integrity of buildings, monuments, and other infrastructure.
- Clogged Drainage Systems: Pigeon nests and droppings can clog gutters, drains, and air vents, leading to water damage and reduced air quality in buildings.
- Airborne Contaminants: Pigeon droppings, when dried and disturbed, can release particles into the air. Inhaling these particles can pose a health risk, particularly in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas.