What is the most serious health risk associated with pest birds?

Inhaling disease organisms from the droppings of pest birds presents one of the most serious health risks because bird droppings can contain a variety of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Certain diseases, such as histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, and psittacosis, can be transmitted to humans through inhalation of airborne particles that become aerosolized when dried droppings are disturbed. These diseases can lead to serious respiratory issues and other health complications.

While exposure to feathers and nesting materials can lead to allergic reactions for some individuals, and allergies due to bird presence can be a concern, these issues do not typically compare in severity to the health risks posed by airborne pathogens. Similarly, food contamination is a significant concern, particularly for restaurants and food processing environments, but the immediate health risks from inhalation of pathogens in droppings are generally more acute and serious. The historical prevalence of severe diseases associated with bird droppings further underscores why this option is regarded as the most serious health risk.