Will bird dander/feces have a negative impact on my Copd?
I love all animals and so does my roommate. She loves to fill her bird feeders and we even put peanuts out for the squirrels. There’s chickadee and other little birds, even magpies and a woodpecker that comes around onto our back deck (2nd floor) so you can imagine the mess they make. We have a table and chairs out there w umbrellas to sit, and I can’t help but wonder or be nervous about their dried feces and if it will have a negative impact on my Copd. She even bought me a nice camping chair for the deck but I’ve only sat out there once maybe twice. Is my worrying legitimate or is it just in my head?
Hi, wow I would be worried! Feces in general of any kind can be harmful to us. Just to make sure though I did a google search for "bird fece danger" here is just a few of the many links that I found. Good luck! Don't forget other wild life such as squirrels and chipmunks can carry rabies, not good for the humans either. I to love the wildlife and try to enjoy them, but at a safe distance for me and them.
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/61646#1
https://dph.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/idph/files/publications/health-hazards-associatedwith-bird-and-bat-droppings-050316.pdf
https://animalcontrol.nyc/how-do-bird-droppings-become-dangerous/
https://ehs.wsu.edu/ehs-training/factsheets/factsheet-bird-and-bat-waste/
There is so many more sites that are listed for this but way to many to add on this forum.thank you I will definitely check these out.
Hi.
I see you received a good response from above. I also have something to add. It’s understandable to be concerned about your COPD and the environment you’re in. Bird and animal droppings can carry bacteria and fungi, which might be harmful, especially if you have a respiratory condition like COPD. It’s not just in your head—keeping your outdoor space clean is important for your health. If you’re worried, you might want to suggest cleaning the area more regularly or even covering the furniture when it’s not in use. That way, you can enjoy the deck with less concern. What do you think? John. community moderator. 
Something else you could consider is wearing a mask when you go outside, to minimize the risk of you inhaling anything. You can still do this with oxygen on. Just a thought, we want to help you find simple ways to enjoy some outside time! -Melissa, team member
