Pigeon Poop Removal in Toronto

Aside from the ugly mess pigeon poop makes on balconies, solar panels, sidewalks, cars, and buildings, the composition of the poop can cause serious health conditions in humans, domesticated animals, and other wildlife. Left on premises, and other objects, pigeon poop can damage and destroy paint, bricks, concrete, and your roof.

If you notice an excess amount of pigeon poop on your property, you may want to invest in a professional company to remove it.

What Are the Diseases Associated with Pigeon Poop?

Pigeon poop is considered one of the more hazardous substances naturally produced. While the bird itself usually does not transfer disease to humans, we are still susceptible to diseases found in pigeon poop.

In areas of the city where pigeons tend to roost, the large number of droppings can produce airborne disease we can easily inhale. Most illnesses associated with pigeon poop require little to no medical intervention, except for those with immunocompromised systems. Pneumonia and meningitis have been connected to pigeon poop exposure.

Direct and indirect exposure to the droppings can also cause several diseases. While it is rare for humans to fall fatally ill from these diseases, they can produce serious health effects.

Below are some common diseases linked to pigeon poop:

• Salmonellosis: Salmonellosis develops from salmonella bacteria, like what is found in food poisoning cases. Symptoms of severe cramping, fever, and diarrhoea usually appear within 24 to 48 hours of inhaling pigeon poop and can last up to seven days for mild cases.
  
  

• Psittacosis: Psittacosis is sometimes referred to as parrot fever. The bacteria responsible causes flu-like symptoms over a two-week period of development.
  
  

• Histoplasmosis: Histoplasmosis is linked to a fungus found in pigeon droppings. Inhalation can trigger symptoms of fever, coughing, chest pain, sweats, nausea, and weakness in those diagnosed with respiratory conditions.
  
  

• Cryptococcosis: Cryptococcosis is another fungus related disease seen with inhalation exposure to pigeon poop. This disease can travel from the lungs to the brain, leading to meningitis.

Can Pigeon Poop Cause Structural & Aesthetic Damage to Property?

Pigeon droppings can also have serious repercussions on buildings, vehicles, and any other outdoor objects. The corrosive uric acid within the poop can damage and weaken materials, including concrete and brick, and ruin the paint on your vehicle. The damage can be seen especially in areas where pigeons roost such as on roofs, ventilation and air conditioning units, and the eaves under bridges. 

You may notice structure damage in the form of water leaks as the pigeon droppings on a roof can basically “eat through” the roofing material. Many warehouse owners take precautions to deter pigeons and other birds from roosting to increase the lifespan of their buildings.

What Precautions Should I Take While Cleaning Up Pigeon Droppings?

When it comes to cleaning up pigeon droppings, it is crucial to use the utmost protection to prevent touching and inhaling the airborne particles of the poop. The area should be restricted for use as removal can produce more airborne particles from the droppings.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, a mask (a charcoal filter mask that fits closely to the face), and goggles should be worn when handling the droppings. To prevent spreading the droppings, a shovel can be used to scoop the poop into large disposable bags. Ensure the area is soaked with water during cleaning to prevent the droppings from drying and becoming airborne.

Thoroughly clean the area before using a disinfectant product. The bags of droppings should be securely sealed and properly disposed of. Any equipment or tools used should also be immediately cleaned and disinfected.

How Much Does It Cost to Remove Pigeon Poop?

Depending on the location and the number of droppings to be removed, costs can range from $350 to several hundred dollars or more. For areas that have a larger area to cover such as warehouse or multiple residential properties, proper removal of pigeon poop may take more than one day.

Contact Hawkeye for Pigeon Poop Removal in Toronto 

If your property requires pigeon poop removal services, contact Hawkeye Bird and Animal Control. We specialize in the humane removal of pest birds from commercial properties. All of our pigeon control and removal experts are thoroughly trained and have a great deal of experience in handling pest birds professionally to prevent the return of roosting pigeons.

Email us at hawkeye@hawkeye.ca or call us at (416) 429-5393 or toll-free at 1-(855) 393-4295 to learn more about our services.