To be safe, wash and sanitize your hands after touching bird feathers, as there is some risk to handling any wild animals or wild animal parts.Why It's Usually Safe To Pick. · Why You Generally Shouldn't.
Are bird feathers OK to touch?
Generally, it's safe to pick up bird feathers that you find on the ground unless you live in an area known to be affected by avian influenza, which is highly contagious. Most diseases spread by birds come from contact with the feces, not the feathers, and parasites carried by birds are mostly species-specific.
Do bird feathers have diseases?
A bird feather, particularly from those living in urban environments, can often play host to a range of parasites, bacteria and viruses. However, it is primarily the feathers of a dead bird which carry said diseases. It is important to note that the chances of catching a disease from bird feathers are very slim.
Do bird feathers have to be cleaned?
Use rubbing alcohol and hydrogen peroxide to kill bacteria. Bird feathers may be carrying bacteria and viruses. Once you've taken care of possible mites, the feathers need to be sanitized to kill bacteria.
Can you get sick from touching bird?
Salmonella can spread between species of birds, to pets, and to people. CDC will provide more information as it becomes available. You can get sick from touching a wild bird or something in its environment, such as a bird feeder or bird bath, and then touching your mouth or face with unwashed hands.
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