Is pigeon feces dangerous to touch or breathe?

Animal waste is generally a bad thing, particularly in any abundance, and this is the case with pigeon feces. Unlike some animals, pigeons eliminate both liquid and solid waste from the same location, and this makes for an extremely caustic, potent form of excrement. Pigeon waste has been known to deteriorate substances as hard as concrete, so it shouldn't come as a surprise it poses some health risks to people. While you might think topical skin irritation is the main concern with such potent substances, the real risk from pigeon feces comes in the form of fungal infections. Pigeon waste is a prime growing ground for fungus, particularly the fungi that cause histoplasmosis and cryptococcosis. While both of these infections are uncommon in healthy people, anyone with a compromised immune system can be at risk. What's worse, the spores from these fungi can be transmitted in the air, spreading over far distances just from the wind. If you find yourself in a position of having to clean pigeon feces, make sure you wear the proper protective gear, including gloves, a respiratory mask, and goggles.



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