Arlene Connely

Many urban dwellers are unaware that more than 60 human diseases — including avian flu, salmonella, E coli and West Nile virus — are related to pigeons, other pest birds and their droppings.

When it comes to pigeons and the problems they’ve caused, we should probably begin with a big mea-culpa, pigeons were the first bird species domesticated by man over 5,000 years ago. Eventually, they grew in mass numbers, feeding off grain stores and pooping on statues. Environmentalists came to their defense and it seemed mankind has lost its battle with the indefatigable pigeon until a whole new industry emerged—pigeon control.

When birds cause damage to your home, they leave ugly stains, cause the structure to deteriorate, and may also lessen the value of your property.