The bacteria, fungi and other pathogens in pigeon excrement can cause allergies and serious illnesses – for example in the lungs and gastrointestinal tract. — Photo: Silas Stein/dpa
A bird dropping on the window or the bench can spoil all the fun of sitting outside. But pigeon droppings are not only unsightly - they also pose health risks.
The bacteria, fungi and other pathogens in pigeon excrement can cause allergies and serious illnesses – for example in the lungs and gastrointestinal tract.
Fresh pigeon droppings have a higher infectious potential than pigeon droppings that are older and may already be dried out. But pigeon droppings can still remain highly infectious for a long time, especially in dark and poorly ventilated rooms such as attics.
Anyone who wants to remove droppings from windows, balcony furniture or the balcony or patio should proceed carefully and observe a few precautions - starting with wearing gloves. Waterproof gloves, such as those made of nitrile rubber, are enough for hand protection.
If the droppings are still soft, then it's enough to remove them quicly with kitchen paper or a tissue, then wipe with a damp cloth.
But if droppings have accumulated over a larger areas, especially indoors, then construction specialists will also don respiratory protection and protective clothing.
A disposable dustproof overall suit may be useful to protect against dust exposure and direct skin contact. Meanwhile FFP3 masks, the kind used during the pandemic, are suitable for respiratory protection.
It's a good idea to also clear the area so that surrounding objects are not further soiled during cleaning.
Dried droppings are best first softened with a soap solution before being wiped off.
Do not scrape off dried droppings. The risk of infection is particularly high when dried pigeon droppings and the microorganisms they contain are stirred up into the air, so it is important to work in a dust-free environment. – dpa
