Nuisance Birds: Common Problematic Species and the Dangers They Present
Birds are beautiful creatures, with their stunning colors, melodic songs, and graceful movements. However, not all birds are welcome guests in our lives, and some can cause significant problems that call for professional bird control services. These birds are referred to as nuisance birds, and they can be a real headache for homeowners, businesses, and farmers. In this article, we’ll take a look at the most common species of nuisance birds, the dangers that they present, and the diseases they can carry.
Pigeons
Pigeons are one of the most common species of nuisance birds, and they can cause a variety of problems. They are known to roost in large numbers on buildings and ledges, leaving droppings everywhere. The droppings can stain building facades and cause damage to roofs, gutters, and electrical wiring. Pigeons are also carriers of diseases such as salmonella and histoplasmosis, which can be harmful to humans and pets.
Seagulls
Seagulls are another species of nuisance birds that are commonly found near the coast. They are known to be aggressive, and they will scavenge for food in areas where people are eating, such as picnic areas and beaches. Seagulls can also cause damage to buildings, boats, and cars, and they are known to be carriers of diseases such as avian cholera and avian tuberculosis.
Starlings
Starlings are another species of nuisance birds that can cause problems for homeowners and businesses. They are known to roost in large numbers, and their droppings can be unsanitary and cause damage to buildings and vehicles. Starlings are also known to carry diseases such as avian pox and salmonella, which can be harmful to humans and pets.
Crows
Crows are intelligent birds that can cause problems for farmers, as they are known to damage crops. They are also known to scavenge for food in urban areas, and their droppings can be unsanitary and cause damage to buildings and vehicles.
Grackles
Grackles are a species of birds that are known for their iridescent black feathers and their aggressive behavior. They are known to be carriers of diseases such as avian pox and salmonella, and they can also cause damage to crops and buildings.
Sparrows
Sparrows are small, brown birds that are common in urban areas. While they are not typically considered dangerous, they can be a nuisance for homeowners and businesses. Sparrows are known to build nests in gutter systems and other areas that can clog with debris, leading to water damage. They are also known to carry mites and lice, which can be harmful to humans and pets.
Canadian Geese
Canadian geese are large birds that are often found near water sources. They are known to cause problems for homeowners and businesses, as their droppings can be unsanitary and their nests can block water flow and cause damage to property. Canadian geese are also known to be carriers of diseases such as avian cholera and avian botulism, which can be harmful to humans and pets.
Diseases Carried by Nuisance Birds
Nuisance birds can carry a variety of diseases that can be harmful to humans and pets. Some of the most common diseases carried by nuisance birds include:
- Salmonella: This bacterial infection can be transmitted to humans through contact with bird droppings, feathers, or other materials that are contaminated with the bacteria. Symptoms include fever, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
- Avian Influenza: This viral infection can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected birds or surfaces contaminated with bird droppings. Symptoms include fever, cough, and respiratory problems.
- Histoplasmosis: This fungal infection can be transmitted to humans through contact with bird droppings or soil contaminated with the fungus. Symptoms include fever, cough, and chest pain.
- Avian Cholera: This bacterial infection can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected birds or surfaces contaminated with bird droppings. Symptoms include fever, weakness, and abdominal pain.
- Avian Botulism: This bacterial infection can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected birds or surfaces contaminated with bird droppings. Symptoms include muscle weakness, vision problems, and difficulty breathing.
To protect yourself and your family from these diseases, it’s important to practice good hygiene when cleaning up after birds and to avoid contact with bird droppings or other materials that may be contaminated. If you suspect that you have been exposed to a bird-borne disease, seek medical attention immediately.
Conclusion
Nuisance birds can present a variety of problems and dangers, including damage to property, unsanitary conditions, and the spread of diseases. It is important to take steps to discourage nuisance birds from roosting and nesting on your property, and to practice safe hygiene when dealing with anything their droppings have touched.
If you need help with nuisance birds, give us a call today for professional consultation.