3 days ago
Saskatoon mom says pigeon problem threatens toddler's health
A Saskatoon mother is raising concerns about a pigeon problem at her condo building that she says poses serious health risks to her toddler, who has a chronic illness.
Lauren Helstrom says cleaning up after pigeons has become part of her daily routine.
'I have to come out here every single day to get rid of the nests, to get rid of the feathers, to get rid of these eggs. This is absolutely disgusting,' she told CTV News.
Helstrom says she has spent months trying to keep the birds away — using spikes, sound machines and lights — but nothing has worked.
She says she's concerned for her three-year-old daughter, who has a chronic lung disease and is vulnerable to respiratory irritants such as pigeon feathers and droppings.
'Really, a pigeon infestation is dangerous for everybody, but especially for a child who is so vulnerable to lung infections,' she said.
Saskatoon mom says pigeon problem threatens toddler's health
Image shows bird poop on Helstrom's balcony (CTV News/ Dan Shingoose)
Helstrom says she requested a disability accommodation from the property management company, asking permission to install a pigeon net on her balcony. She says she offered to pay for it herself and provided doctors' letters in support of the request, but it was denied.
'They told me that it had something to do with wind vortexes, aesthetic reasons and structural concerns,' she said.
Helstrom says the net would be professionally installed and would not damage the building.
She has since filed a complaint with the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission.
'I feel very discriminated against because I don't know how to keep my daughter's lungs safe here,' she said. 'This is where we live. I own this place, I don't rent it. I can't just get up and move.'
CTV News reached out to Turanich Acquisitions Management for comment but did not receive a response by deadline.
In the meantime, Helstrom says she will continue to advocate for her daughter's health.
