Why Bird Dropping Clean-Up Requires Care
Pigeon and bird droppings are not just an aesthetic problem — they present genuine health risks. Dried droppings can harbour dangerous pathogens that become airborne when disturbed. Cleaning up after a significant bird infestation should be treated as a hazardous waste task.
Health Risks Associated With Bird Droppings
- Histoplasmosis: A fungal infection caused by Histoplasma capsulatum, which grows in soil enriched with bird or bat droppings. Inhaling spores can cause a respiratory illness that ranges from mild to severe, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
- Cryptococcosis: Another fungal infection associated with pigeon droppings, also affecting the respiratory system and potentially the nervous system.
- Salmonella: Pigeons and other urban birds frequently carry salmonella, which can be spread via droppings.
- Psittacosis (Ornithosis): A bacterial infection (Chlamydophila psittaci) that can cause pneumonia in humans. More commonly associated with parrots but can be carried by pigeons.
- Ectoparasites: Bird mites, lice and fleas can survive in nesting material and infest the property after birds are excluded.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Required
Before beginning any clean-up:
- P2 or N95 respirator (surgical masks are insufficient)
- Disposable coveralls or clothing that will be washed at high temperature immediately
- Disposable nitrile gloves
- Safety goggles or eye protection
- Boots that can be cleaned/disinfected
Step-by-Step Clean-Up Procedure
1. Do Not Dry Sweep or Use Compressed Air
Never dry sweep, brush or blow bird droppings — this disperses spores and bacteria into the air. Always dampen the area first.
2. Wet Down the Area
Apply water (with a small amount of disinfectant) to the affected area. Allow it to soak for 10–15 minutes to prevent dust and reduce airborne particles.
3. Remove Solid Waste
Using disposable scrapers and shovels, collect all solid droppings, nesting material and debris into heavy-duty, sealed bags. Double bag before disposal.
4. Disinfect the Area
Apply a broad-spectrum disinfectant appropriate for porous and non-porous surfaces. Quaternary ammonium-based disinfectants or diluted bleach (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) are effective against most pathogens associated with bird waste.
5. Allow to Dry and Ventilate
Allow the area to dry completely with good ventilation before reinstating any stored items or resuming use of the space.
6. Treat for Mites
If significant nesting material was present, a professional mite treatment may be required for the surrounding area, including any internal spaces the birds accessed.
When to Call a Professional
For large quantities of droppings, confined spaces (roof voids, ceiling cavities), or where the area involves food preparation or vulnerable occupants, professional biohazard cleaning and treatment is strongly recommended.
Pestyologist provides full bird clean-up and proofing services across Sydney. Contact us today.