Pigeon population in India soars by 150%: Know about these 5 health dangers you could face by feeding them
In this urban jungle, where human connections are fleeting, people often tend to like pigeons because they get domesticated easily, and they keep returning to the person who feeds them grains. But did you know exposure to pigeons can lead to several health problems, see here
Delhi and its special bond with pigeons is something we all are aware of. Amid the hustle and bustle of city life, where towering skyscrapers dominate the landscape and the flat-owners hardly get a chance to connect with their neighbours, pigeons have become the silent companions of many. But are you aware that the ever-increasing population of pigeons is raising several health risks?
In this urban jungle, where human connections are fleeting, people often tend to like pigeons because they get domesticated easily, and they keep returning to the person who feeds them grains.
According to the 2023 State of India's Birds report, the population of rock pigeons has shot up by over 150 per cent in India since 2000. This is one of the steepest rises among any bird species.
Moreover, experts argue that pigeon-feeding spots have contributed to many health risks for human beings¡ªespecially in the form of respiratory issues¡ªand have also created an existential threat to other birds, such as the now-rare sparrow.
? Stop Feeding Pigeons, They Are Killing You!
¡ª Gems (@gemsofbabus_) December 18, 2024
The population of pigeons in India has increased by over ¡°150%¡± since the year 2000. pic.twitter.com/SXrqohf6nJ
Respiratory illness, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, and other health hazards
Over time, the population of pigeons is anticipated to be growing in areas where they are regularly fed. With the increase in pigeon droppings, many health hazards will rise.
According to a study published in PubMed, exposure to pigeon droppings can lead to serious respiratory conditions due to the pathogens they harbour. The study also mentions that pigeon faeces are laced with fungi, which, if inhaled for a duration, can affect the immune system.
Here are 5 health hazards associated with pigeon droppings
Psittacosis: Pigeon droppings can cause respiratory diseases such as psittacosis, which is a flu-like infectious disease that spreads to humans from infected birds like pigeons. It is mainly caused by the bacteria Chlamydia psittaci.
Bird fancier's lung: The name of the disease may sound something very unheard of; it is a type of hypersensitivity pneumonitis that is caused by the antigens present in bird droppings.
Histoplasmosis: Pigeon droppings can also cause respiratory diseases like lung infections caused by inhaling spores of the fungus. Symptoms of this disease include fever, chills, cough, chest pain, joint pain, and more.
Candidiasis: It is a fungal infection that causes a pulmonary disease called cryptococcosis, which mainly affects the central nervous system.
Chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis: According to a ToI report, two women in Mumbai underwent a lung transplant in 2020 after suffering from chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis. This disease is also called environment-related lung fibrosis.
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Sneha is a dedicated writer with a passion for storytelling that enthrals and inspires the readers. With a background in Health and Wellness, she brings a unique perspective to every narrative. As a journalist, she aims to find solutions with authenticity and credibility.
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