> TW> While I understand your concern, it's not yet proven (to me)
> TW> that poop dust is harmful.
> CC> Tom, it's certain.  You (and the birds) do not want to breathe it.
> CC> That is the main reason to clean cages really (other than the fact
> CC> that they look better).
>OK.  But where's the proof? I believe you, but data please.
Uh, Tom? How do I put this? You're making it sound like you WANT to
sniff bird poop dust! 
What kind of data do you need? Common sense should tell you all you need
to know. I can't quote chapter and verse of a written document (can't
find anything written about it right this minute), but see if the
following makes sense to you.
Think about it--poop always contains bacteria, and also possibly viruses
and/or internal parasites; all 3 of these are capable of encysting and
surviving outside the host (depending, of course, on which kind of
infectious agent is being shed). Many of the bacteria, and a few of the
parasites and viruses can also infect humans. The waste portion of the
dropping itself is certainly not meant to be inhaled, and acts as a
foreign body irritant to the lining of the lungs.
To the otherwise healthy casual bird owner, this might never be a
problem. But to anyone whose lungs are compromised by any other kind of
illness, allergy, or just plain advanced age, the dust can be
devastating. Lung problems can also develop in people who are healthy
but are regularly exposed to high quantities of dust (owners of large
indoor aviaries, for example).
Thankfully this illness doesn't appear incredibly often, But it is a
risk bird owners should be aware of.
--Kathy
 * SLMR 2.1a * 
--- Silver Xpress Mail System       
---------------