Here’s the Dirty Truth About Feeding Pigeons for Good Luck

Many people feed pigeons every day. For some, it’s an act of kindness. But for others, it is a belief. Some astrologers say feeding pigeons can help fix “Rahu” in your horoscope. People think that giving grains to pigeons can bring good luck. But is it really safe?

Doctors at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhi have warned that being around pigeons too much can harm your lungs. In one case, an 11-year-old boy from Delhi’s Vasundhara Enclave got very sick. He often came in contact with pigeon feathers and droppings. Later, he had trouble breathing and was diagnosed with a lung disease called hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Doctors gave him oxygen and medicines to help with the swelling in his lungs, and he started getting better.

Doctors say feeding pigeons too often can be harmful, especially to your health. Pigeons leave behind droppings and feathers everywhere. These droppings are not just dirty, they can make people sick. They may carry germs, fungi, and tiny bugs. When people breathe near old or dry droppings, they might breathe in harmful particles. These can hurt the lungs.

One disease pigeon droppings can cause is cryptococcosis, which comes from a fungus. It can feel like pneumonia and lead to coughing, fever, and breathing problems. In some rare cases, it can even affect the brain.

Another illness is histoplasmosis, which also affects the lungs. People with it may feel tired, have chest pain, and keep coughing. These infections don’t only spread through the air. You can also get sick by touching places where pigeons have left droppings.

While some healthy people may not get very sick, others, especially those with weak lungs or health issues, can face serious problems. Signs of these illnesses include coughing that doesn’t stop, chest tightness, tiredness, breathing trouble, fever, and even night sweats.

Feeding pigeons may feel like a kind act or a way to follow beliefs. But it’s important to think about health too. Staying safe means keeping some distance and making sure your home is clean and free from pigeon droppings.

What You Can Do to Stay Safe

1. Don’t feed pigeons. It may seem kind, but it makes more pigeons come and settle nearby.
   
2. Cover your balcony and windows. Use nets to stop pigeons from sitting or building nests there.
   
3. Clean safely. If you must clean droppings, wear a mask and gloves so you don’t breathe in harmful stuff.
   
4. Use tools to keep pigeons away. You can put spikes, shiny tape, or sound machines to stop them from sitting in certain spots.
   
5. Clean outdoor spaces often. Wash areas with droppings using a strong cleaner.
   
6. Check hidden corners. Pigeons often hide and build nests in building ducts and near water tanks.