Starlings are a common bird species found in both urban and rural environments. Like many wild animals, these birds can carry various pathogens. Understanding the diseases starlings can harbor and how they spread helps assess associated risks.
Diseases Starlings Can Carry
Starlings can carry a range of bacterial pathogens, including Salmonella, Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Campylobacter jejuni. Salmonella is frequently found in starling droppings and can contaminate food and water sources, including livestock feed. E. coli can be carried and shed by starlings, posing a risk of contamination to agricultural settings. Campylobacter jejuni is another bacterium associated with starlings that can lead to gastrointestinal illness in humans. Starlings may also harbor Chlamydia psittaci, the bacterium causing psittacosis (Parrot Fever), which can affect humans. Avian tuberculosis, caused by Mycobacterium avium, is another bacterial disease found in soil and droppings contaminated by infected birds.
Fungal diseases include histoplasmosis. This condition is caused by the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum, which thrives in soil enriched by large accumulations of bird droppings. Cryptococcosis, another fungal infection, is caused by yeast often found in the intestinal tracts and droppings of starlings. Candidiasis, a yeast infection, can also be associated with starling droppings.
Viral pathogens less often directly infect humans from starlings, but these birds can transmit them. Starlings can carry and shed avian influenza viruses through their respiratory secretions and feces. They can also act as hosts for West Nile Virus, though transmission to humans primarily occurs through infected mosquitoes, not directly from the birds.
How Diseases Are Transmitted
The primary way pathogens from starlings can spread to humans or other animals is through indirect contact with their droppings. When dried bird droppings are disturbed, fungal spores and bacterial particles can become airborne, leading to inhalation exposure. This airborne dust is a common route for diseases such as histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, and psittacosis.
Contamination of food and water sources is another pathway. Starlings frequently roost and feed in agricultural areas, and their droppings can contaminate livestock feed and water troughs with bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli. This can lead to illness in livestock and, subsequently, potential human exposure through contaminated food products. Indirect contact with surfaces soiled by starling droppings, such as outdoor furniture or food preparation areas, can also facilitate pathogen transfer.
While less common, direct contact with sick or dead birds can also pose a risk. Starlings can also contribute to the spread of viruses like West Nile Virus, acting as reservoirs transmitted by mosquitoes. Starlings can also carry bird mites, which may then infest other animals or structures.
Reducing Your Risk
Minimizing exposure to diseases carried by starlings involves several steps. It is advisable to avoid direct contact with starlings, their nests, or nesting materials. When encountering bird droppings, especially in large accumulations, approach with caution.
For cleaning up starling droppings, appropriate protective gear should be worn to prevent inhalation of airborne particles. This includes:
Disposable gloves
A dust respirator or HEPA filter mask
Eye protection such as goggles
Disposable coveralls or old clothing that can be laundered or discarded
Before beginning cleanup, moisten the droppings with water or a disinfectant solution, such as diluted bleach, to prevent dust from becoming airborne. Never dry sweep or use compressed air, as this can aerosolize pathogens.
After the droppings are thoroughly wetted, carefully shovel them into heavy-duty plastic bags, and double-bag the waste before disposal. All tools and reusable protective gear should be cleaned and disinfected after use. Practicing good personal hygiene is also important; wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after any contact with birds, their droppings, or contaminated surfaces. If soap and water are not immediately available, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be used. Preventing starlings from roosting or nesting in areas where food or water is prepared or stored can also reduce contamination risks.