Pigeons have been around forever it seems, creating beauty in the air, as well as long lasting damage when roosting on your property or other areas like buildings, machinery, or even indoors. 

The main reason for such destructive problems is their droppings, which not only defaces the exterior of structures, but carry diseases as well.  The concern for the spread of disease is one of the most important reasons to utilize a pigeon repellent.

10 Diseases that Pigeons Carry

1. Salmonellosis
Often referred to as food poisoning, Salmonellosis is a bacteria that can be found in the droppings of pigeons.  The dust from pigeon droppings can be sucked through ventilators and air conditioners, contaminating food and cooking surfaces in homes, restaurants, and food processing plants.

2. Histoplasmosis
This disease originates in pigeon droppings that have dried.  Histoplasmosis affects the respiratory system and can be fatal if not treated.

3. Cryptococcosis
Often beginning as a pulmonary disease, Cryptococcosis can later affect a human’s central nervous system.  The disease is caused by yeast found in the intestinal tract of pigeons, which then resides in their droppings.

4. E.coli
E.coli is found in the manure of cattle such as cows, which is a prime pecking point for pigeons.  The pigeons then become carriers of the disease, and when their droppings fall into the water, the water becomes contaminated.  This is also the case when their droppings fall into a food supply.

5. Candidiasis
This disease a yeast or fungus infection that is spread by pigeons.  Candidiasis is more common in women, and affects mainly the vagina, the urogenital tract, the intestines, the skin, the mouth, and the respiratory system.  Symptoms include pain, itching, and discharge.

6. Encephalitis
Encephalitis is distinguishable by headaches, drowsiness, and fever which can result in paralysis, coma, and even death, caused by an inflammation of the nervous system.  Pigeons are carriers of this disease and it is spread to humans through mosquitoes who have bitten the pigeons.

It is so important to use a combination of pigeon repellents to ensure the health and safety of humans as well as pets.  When pigeons are able to roost in areas where their droppings can be either touched or the dust can get indoors, everyone is at risk for developing one or more of these diseases.