Health risks of droppings
Accumulated bird and bat droppings can harbor the fungus Histoplasma, which causes histoplasmosis when spores are inhaled. It's especially associated with old accumulations in the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys, which include several of the states we serve. Pigeon droppings can also harbor Cryptococcus. Disturbing dry droppings by sweeping, shoveling or power washing can put spores into the air, which is why NIOSH and the CDC recommend dust control, wetting and respiratory protection during removal.
Large accumulations also damage roofs and structures, stain surfaces, attract insects and create strong odors.
Where guano builds up
- Attics and wall cavities with bat colonies
- Barns, sheds and outbuildings
- Warehouses, factories and open-structure buildings
- Parking garages, bridges and overpasses
- Church steeples, bell towers and historic buildings
- Signs, ledges and rooftop equipment
How the work is done
- Exclusion first. Birds and bats must be excluded by a qualified wildlife professional, following state rules. Bats are protected in many states, and exclusion timing is restricted during pupping season.
- Plan dust control. Isolate the work area and set up negative air where needed.
- Protect workers with respirators, disposable coveralls and gloves.
- Wet the droppings to suppress dust.
- Remove droppings, nests, feathers and contaminated insulation, bagging waste for disposal.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces.
- Deodorize where needed.
- Document the work.
Bats need special care
Never seal bats inside a building. Exclusion must let bats leave and keep them from returning, and must follow state wildlife rules about timing. Our cleanup comes after the wildlife professional confirms exclusion.
Common questions
Is a little bird poop on a deck dangerous?
Small, fresh droppings outdoors carry little risk for healthy people. Large, old, dry accumulations, especially indoors, are the concern.
Do you remove the bats or birds?
We coordinate with licensed wildlife professionals for exclusion. We handle the cleanup.
Will insurance cover guano damage?
Many policies exclude damage from birds, bats or rodents. Check your policy.