Prepared as a service of the AH&LA by the Loss Prevention ManagementInstitute, Conrad N. Hilton College, University of Houston,Funded by gifts from the American Hotel and Lodging Education Foundation

The Loss Prevention Management Institute and your editor do not promote any given product or organization; but feel it is important to indicate sources for meeting a special need or problem. Such an organization and product recently came to your editor’s attention.

Bird droppings are hazardous to a property. They can deteriorate almost any building material. Wood, stone, marble, steel and iron are all susceptible to damage from bird droppings. If allowed to accumulate, bird droppings can damage roofs, clog gutters, discolor paint, corrode I-beams, ruin cloth awnings and short out electrical equipment.

But the most disturbing problem is the unhealthy bacteria and micro-organisms that can be found in bird droppings. When droppings dry out, they become a powder like substance tht, when disturbed, can create small clouds of fine dust. Inhalation and ingestion of this fine dust is the most common method of transmitting diseases found in bird droppings.

When birds inhabit a specific area long enough, their poor housekeeping habits are apparent. Three of the most wide spread species are pigeons, sparrows and starlings. These birds are particularly nonchalant in their toilet habits and are the source for most pest bird control problems.

Entomologic research has verified more than 60 transmittable diseases that can be found in bird droppings. These include diseases such as salmonellosis, streptococosis, tuberculosis, encephalitis, meningitis, etc.

As previously noted, the two common methods of disease transmittal is inhalation and ingestion.

Inhalation can occur when dried out droppings are disturbed, creating a cloud of air-borne dust that can carry the micro-organisms into the lungs. Histoplasmosis is a well documented respiratory disease that can be transmitted through inhalation.

Ingestion can happen by eating or drinking foods that have come into contact with bacteria or micro-organisms. Botulism or Query Fever are diseases that can be transmitted by ingestion.

Protect yourself. There are some simple, common sense methods to help protect yourself from these problems.

When working with bird droppings, wear a minimum of eye protection, respiratory protection and disposable gloves and clothing. Use a disinfectant to clean contaminated surfaces.
Heavy accumulations ( especially in enclosed areas) can present a serious health threat. Complete environmental suits may be required for protection. Strong bactericide should be used for safe waste removal.
After bird waste is safely removed, install an effective bird control system to prevent the droppings from accumulating again.
Consider the risks. Next time you have to do some kind of work around bird infested areas, take time to consider the health risks and plan to take the appropriate safety measures.