Birds
Birds
Pigeons
The word "pigeon" is typically used as an all-encompassing term for birds that are scientifically known as doves. The type of dove most common in North Mississippi is the Rock Pigeon. They like to hang out in tall buildings and build nests around streetlights. The birds are probably most famous for decorating streets, sidewalks, and cars with fat white splats: their droppings. These droppings aren't just nasty; they're also dangerous to humans. Their nests and feathers can pose a risk too. In the fecal matter and other materials, parasites, fungus, and other diseases develop that can be life-threatening to humans. The droppings can also sink into soil or mix with a water supply and infect people
that way. If the birds sneak into your attic and build a nest there, the excrement can mix with dust over time and be inhaled. Histoplasmosis and Cryptococcosis are the two illnesses pigeons most frequently transmit to humans.
General Birds
The Magnolia State is home to many different beautiful species of birds, both migratory and those that remain here year-round. Mockingbirds, Blue Jays, robins, and bluebirds are just some of the lovely creatures found in our area. Many birds though, are not a welcome sight near homes and businesses. Double-Crested Cormorants, for instance, wipe out native vegetation, hurt endangered species, and plague catfish farmers. Those birds are responsible for over $25 million in annual damage to the aquaculture industry. Twelve million of which is in economic loss to Mississippi catfish producers
alone. Mississippi Kites are another problem. They are known to dive and attack people who approach their nests. When one attacks, it can let out a scream and call in other Kites to join in on the battle.
Birds are also primary spreaders of Histoplasmosis, which can spread when spores from their droppings or feathers are kicked into the air and inhaled.
