can dead birds carry diseases

West Nile virus has been detected in variety of bird species. Some infected birds, especially crows and jays, are known to get sick and die from the infection. Reporting and testing of dead birds is one way to check for the presence of West Nile virus in the environment. Some surveillance programs rely on citizens to report dead bird sightings to local authorities.

WHY HOUSTON PEST CONTROL COMPANIES LABEL SOME BIRDS PESTS

These species, and others like them, have become so accustomed to people and developed areas that they have very little fear of people. As a result, they nest in and around populated areas where they scavenge food. To put it simply, a lot of bird droppings and feathers accompany the acquisition of that food.

Bird droppings can be a major issue for nearby businesses and residents alike. It is ugly, smells bad, and typically smatters an entire area relentlessly every day. Awnings, cars, patio furniture outside, and other exposed surfaces are all covered.

Bird droppings left on cars in the sun can erode the clearcoat and leave behind irreversible blemishes. It turns your patio into an unhygienic place for guests to eat on an otherwise lovely day when you have outdoor seating.

This is a crucial point that many people overlook: bird droppings and feathers are a major source of disease. The primary disease-carrying species are starlings, pigeons, gulls or egrets, and sparrows. Basically, all the birds that you usually see in Houston on a daily basis

HOW ARE THESE BIRDS TRANSMITTING DISEASES?

Like other animals, birds typically spread disease through a variety of means, such as direct contact, contaminating the nearby airspace, or through insects they attract or carry that subsequently bite people.

There are three primary ways that certain bird species transmit diseases to other birds.

The main source of bird disease transmission is bird feces, particularly from the birds we have just mentioned. This is because bird droppings are a veritable petri dish of pathogens. In small amounts, bird feces are harmful. But dealing with a bird infestation also means dealing with an excessive accumulation of bird droppings, which poses a health risk. This is the reason Houston pest control businesses advise against bird infestations in order to prevent a more serious problem later on.

Feathers are another common source of disease transmission among birds, albeit not as frequently as excrement. Particularly in densely populated areas, bird feathers are frequently home to a wide variety of bacteria, parasites, and nasty viruses. It should be remembered, though, that the feathers that pose this risk usually come from a dead bird.

As experts in Houston pest control, we discover that bird nests also contribute significantly to the spread of diseases, especially a number of fungal species that can proliferate through the debris that birds collect and utilize as a nesting site. Additionally, insects and parasites like fleas and lice thrive in bird nests.

How do birds get infected with West Nile virus?

Birds can contract the West Nile virus by being bitten by an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected by biting infected birds. Certain birds that are either scavengers or predators, like crows, may contract the West Nile virus after consuming sick or dead birds that already had the infection. Some birds that eat infected mosquitoes may also become infected.

FAQ

Can birds transmit diseases to humans?

Bird owners should be aware that although their pets might be highly intelligent and fun companions, they can sometimes carry germs that can make people sick. Although rare, germs from birds can cause a variety of illnesses in people, ranging from minor skin infections to serious illnesses.

Is it okay to pick up a dead bird?

Do not touch or pick up any dead or visibly sick birds that you find. Wild birds can carry several diseases that are infectious to people.

Are dead birds safe to touch?

Never touch a dead bird directly with your bare hands. Use disposable gloves or place a plastic bag (without holes) over your hand. Turn the bag inside out over the bird and then tie the bag closed. Double bag it this way.

Can birds cause respiratory problems in humans?

Chlamydia psittaci is a type of bacteria that often infects birds. Less commonly, these bacteria can infect people and cause a disease called psittacosis. Psittacosis can cause mild illness or pneumonia (lung infection). To help prevent this illness, follow good precautions when handling and cleaning birds and cages.