Birds and bats can pose numerous challenges. Both can carry harmful diseases and can host other pests like fleas, lice, ticks and mites. Histoplasmosis is a respiratory disease caused by a fungus and is transmitted to humans by airborne fungus spores that grow on bird and bat droppings. Birds can also carry cryptococcus which is an infestation with yeast like fungus that can cause tumors in the lungs and can spread to the brain. They can also transmit psittacosis, another infectious disease that can result in death. Their droppings and nesting materials can also become unsightly and bird droppings can become a slipping hazard. Bats can also carry and transmit rabies. Even a bite or a scratch from a rabid bat can result in transmission of the virus. While it is extremely rare to be infected with rabies, it can happen. Symptoms develop anywhere from 3-12 weeks after exposure to an infected animal. If it gets to the central nervous system, it will advance very quickly and is a terrible way to die.
Cleaning Up Bird Poop & Bat Guano
Precautions need to be taken when cleaning up droppings from either one of these animals to reduce direct contact. Once cleanup is done you must wash your hands and any exposed skin before eating or drinking. If you have a compromised immune system, you should never clean up droppings. For a smaller clean up of droppings, wear disposable gloves and clothing that can be washed. For a larger clean-up, you will need to take more precautions. Wear disposable coveralls, boots and gloves. A respirator is also a good idea for added protection. You can control the dust by using water to reduce the chance of inhalation. Soak the droppings in water and then shovel them. Collect the wet droppings in heavy-duty plastic bags and throw them away.
How to Deter Bats, Pigeons & Other Birds from Roosting
On average, a well-fed pigeon deposits 25 pounds of droppings every year. Their feces can damage buildings and vehicles. Pigeon overpopulation can cause increased property damage and the debris left behind can attract mice, rats and flies. Prevent pigeons by not feeding them, removing bird feeders, securing trash cans and removing sources of water. Prevent them from roosting by blocking their access. Use wood, metal, wire mesh, plastic or nylon to block them. You can also attach spikes to prevent birds from landing and remove nests to discourage breeding. To prevent bats, watch your home at dusk to determine where they’re getting in and out. Install one-way exclusion devices and keep watching to make sure they are working. When you are absolutely sure they are all out, permanently seal the entry holes.
Bird & Bat Control
Preventing problems with birds and bats is always easier than having to get rid of them. Bird and bat removal is a specialized part of pest control that needs to be done in an effective, safe and humane way. Bugman Pest Control of New Mexico use the most effective and up-to-date bird and bat control methods available. Give us a call today!
