Bird lovers, take heed - if your garden's airborne visitors are acting off or if you're spotting leftover snacks near their diner, then it’s time to make some changes. Experts at the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) have sounded the alarm over diseases being passed around at bird feeders. Ailments such as finch trichomonosis are able to quickly spread via affected feeders like wildfire.
Cleaning your bird feeder ahead of the busy spring season is crucial. A wildlife expert has some advice for those looking to avoid accidentally spreading avian diseases. Richard Green, head of production at Kennedy Wild Bird Food and Pet Supplies, shed light on this avian health crisis, reports the Express.
He pointed out: "Certain birds, such as Greenfinches, Chaffinches, Siskins, House Sparrows, and Collared Doves, are often more vulnerable to diseases. "This is mainly because of their social nature and tendency to feed in flocks, which increases close contact and makes it easier for illnesses to spread.".
As these feathered friends congregate, they're unwittingly making it more likely that sickness could spread, especially if the feeder isn’t kept properly. He said: "Wear disposable gloves and soak the feeder in a diluted bleach solution to thoroughly disinfect it. Be sure to rinse it well and allow it to dry completely before refilling it with seed.".
The frequency at which you should clean the feeder largely depends on its usage rate. For frequently used feeders, thorough cleaning every two to three refills is advised. If you observe birds at the feeder exhibiting signs of illness, action is paramount. Richard advocates a feeder removal "for at least two weeks" to avoid the contamination spreading further.
Beyond cleanings, certain giveaway signs point towards potential feeder contamination. A particular condition to watch for is "Finch eye conjunctivitis," an ailment impacting the eyes of the birds. Symptoms that may manifest include swollen, crusty eyes among the birds, impaired vision, and subdued demeanour. In these instances, disinfect the area where the feeder is located and remove it to contain any disease.
Furthermore, discarded food in proximity to the feeder raises red flags about potential contamination with diseases like trichomoniasis. Richard added: "Infected birds drop food with the parasite, which is then picked up by others, spreading the disease.".
Therefore, prompt disposal of food waste becomes essential for curbing unhealthy bacteria and germs from causing lasting damage. It is vital to perform regular cleanings of bird feeders, keeping vigilant watch and ensuring the continued health of our winged companions.
