Birds, such as Pigeons, often live and breed in close proximity to man. Because of this, and the build-up of excrement they will create, they often cause considerable property damage, resulting in costly repairs and maintenance, spread of disease and cause other pest issues such as rats and cockroaches. The build-up of fouling also corrodes paint and can make walkways very slippery when wet.

Bird diseases, or avian diseases, can have a huge impact on a business, especially those within the food industry. The primary method for disease transmission by birds is through their fecal matter. Although in most cases the pathogens are found in small concentrations in their droppings, it is the build up of bird faces during large infestations that can result in an increased risk of exposure.