Histoplasmosis May Be an Issue

Histoplasmosis, caused by a fungal organism present throughout the Midwest and concentrated in areas with quantities of bird droppings, can cause a respiratory disease characterized by persistent cough and shortness of breath. This disease is transmitted by inhaling the organism from the environment, so it is essential that you devise a method of maintaining your flock in such a way as to prevent the accumulation of droppings. All animal waste should be disposed of in a safe manner.

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) Is a Potential Risk

Avian influenza is a potential public health hazard that may be associated with urban chicken farming. Birds shed the organism in their saliva, nasal secretions and feces. This viral disease in birds is communicable to humans through exposure to respiratory or fecal secretions. While the risk of avian influenza in the United States is extremely low and theoretically limited to those in contact with infected chickens, research the disease before making the decision to become a part of the population that will have direct contact with potentially infected poultry.

Chickens May Attract Predators

The presence of chickens on your property may attract urban predators, such as stray dogs, foxes and coyotes. This attraction may increase the probability of interactions between humans (yourself, a relative or a neighbor) and these predators, which may result in attacks and bites. While providing a sufficient structural barrier to protect your flock will prevent predators from accessing chickens, the presence of prey may still be an attractant for these animals, who are in search of an easy meal.

Chickens Also Attract Rodents

Predators aren’t the only animals who may be attracted to your flock. Failing to maintain a clean environment for your chickens may attract mice or rats to your property, and the presence of these rodents can pose its own series of health risks. To mitigate this risk, you should educate yourself about the proper care and maintenance of chicken flocks, maintain a clean and sanitary environment for them, and research proper bird feed storage.