There was once a time when our skies and balconies were busy with the flutter of sparrows, crows, parrots and a variety of other birds. But over the years, one bird has claimed the urban landscape almost entirely, the pigeon. City roundabouts, concrete patches near traffic signals and community spaces have increasingly become hubs for pigeon feeding, leading to an explosion in their population. Wherever you look, these grey-blue birds dominate the scene, from crowding balconies, nesting on AC consoles to taking over nearly every nook of living space they can find.

But have you ever wondered why feeding pigeons has become so common? While for some it may be an act of compassion, it's also rooted in belief. Many follow the advice of astrologers who claim that feeding pigeons can fix their Rahu. So many think that offering pigeons grains and water will turn stars in your favour. However, this seemingly harmless act is not without consequences. You may ask, "What harm can pigeons possibly do?" The answer is - quite a lot.

When pigeons coexist with humans, they leave behind a trail of feathers and droppings. And it’s not just messy, it’s dangerous. Delhi’s Sir Ganga Ram Hospital found a strong link between prolonged exposure to pigeons and serious lung diseases. Several studies have warned that frequent feeding and close proximity to these birds can pose significant health risks. Their droppings are known carriers of fungal, bacterial, and parasitic infections and can also trigger allergic reactions.

Pigeon droppings may seem harmless, but they can contain harmful fungi such as Aspergillus. When inhaled, these fungi can lead to Histoplasmosis, an infection that may develop into a form of Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) known as Bird Breeder’s Lung or Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis (HP). The droppings act as a trigger for the immune system, causing inflammation that can be either short- or long-term. This inflammation affects the interstitium, the network of tissue in the lungs responsible for oxygen exchange. If detected early, within six weeks of symptom onset, HP can often be reversed with treatment. However, many patients seek medical help too late, by which time the condition has progressed to irreversible lung fibrosis, significantly impacting respiratory function.

Many people believe that the act brings wealth and prosperity but what we need is a balance between compassion, belief and public health concerns.

Several pulmonologists warn people to keep their balconies and surrounding areas free of pigeons. In fact in Mumbai many RWAs took it upon themselves to ensure all balconies are covered and there isn't place for pigeons to breed around resident areas. Several pulmonologists warn people to keep their balconies and surrounding areas free of pigeons. In fact in Mumbai many RWAs took it upon themselves to ensure all balconies are covered and there isn't place for pigeons to breed around resident areas. Here are some ways you can minimise your exposure to pigeons and their droppings.

1. Avoid feeding pigeons: Feeding encourages flocking and nesting, worsening the population and exposure.

2. Keep windows and balconies clean and sealed: Install nets or mesh screens on balconies, AC units and open vents to keep pigeons out.

3. Wear a mask while cleaning droppings or nests: Use an N95 mask and gloves when cleaning areas contaminated by pigeon droppings to avoid inhaling dangerous particles.

4. Use pigeon deterrents: Spike strips, reflective tape or ultrasonic repellents can prevent roosting on ledges and rooftops.

5. Regularly disinfect outdoor spaces: Clean surfaces with bleach or strong disinfectants where droppings accumulate, especially on terraces or balconies.

6. Check building ducts and water tanks: Pigeons often nest in hidden spots so make sure regular checks and seal any openings.