Bird Information

Problems associated with the following birds:

Feral Pigeon (Columba livia), Starlings (Sturnus vulgaris),

House Sparrows (Passer domesticus), Seagulls (Larus species).

Bird Related Diseases

Food poisoning: Salmonella, E.Coli 0157 and Campylobacter bacteria found in the Feral Pigeon population

CHLAMYDIOSIS: (Ornithosis / Psittacosis)
CRYPTOCOCCOSIS: Fungal infection
ERYSIPELAS: Wound infection
EXTRINSIC ALLERGIC ALVEOLITIS: Serious allergic reaction know as Pigeon Fancier’s Lung
HISTOPLASMOSIS: Fungal diseases, spores found in bird droppings

NOTE: On rare occasions some of these diseases can be fatal.

Health and Safety

Accumulated fouling, especially on the ground, can be very slippery, particularly when wet. It can render walkways and fire escapes treacherous and should be continually removed to prevent accidents.

Insect Infestation

Pest birds, their droppings and nesting materials, support a variety of insects.
Parasitic fleas, ticks and mites carried by pest birds can cause irritation and bite humans.
Droppings provide a breeding ground for flies and other insects (including stored product insects), which could affect the health and comfort of the occupiers of the infested building.

Smell and Noise

The combination of the fouling and nesting material can create an objectionable smell. The noise nuisance is aggravated during the seagull breeding season, and can evoke fear in some people.

Structural Damage

Gutters choked with nests and droppings can cause water seepage, frequently leading to extensive damage. Buildings are stained by accumulations of droppings. The fungi present in the fouling generate acidic secretions which deface and accelerate deterioration of the building. Affected surfaces require continual cleaning and repainting which increases maintenance costs.

Birds and the Law

The law states that food premises must be protected against external sources of contamination such as pests. Under the Food Safety Act (1990), fines of up to £20,000 per charge can be enforced in the Magistrates Court if pests on the premises threaten health or safety. If an immediate threat is posed, the premises can be closed on the orders of the Environmental Health Officer. If prosecution is taken to a Crown Court, the penalty includes unlimited fines and up to six months imprisonment.

To arrange a free no obligation survey, please contact our friendly and experienced service control team on 0800 7830011, or email us and we will be happy to help you with any query you may have.