The RSPB has shared advice for anyone feeding birds in their garden this winter, urging people to avoid using a particular type of bird feeder
Garden and bird enthusiasts are being urged to reconsider the use of a certain type of bird table in their gardens due to concerns they could facilitate the spread of lethal diseases. Last year, the RSPB stopped selling flat bird feeders on its website following evidence suggesting they may contribute to the transmission of illnesses such as finch trichomonosis, particularly among finches, reports the Express.
Greenfinches have suffered a significant population decline, with numbers dropping by 69 per cent between 2008 and 2018 due to a parasitic disease. Consequently, the bird was added to the red list in 2021. At the time, the charity informed customers: “As a precautionary measure, whilst we await the findings of the review, we have suspended all our bird tables and related products, table mix and table mix extra, window feeders and feeder guardians with trays, from sale.
“This is because there is evidence to suggest that some birds, particularly finches, can be more exposed to disease when fed on flat surfaces like these.”
In December, RSPB England shared some helpful advice on its Facebook page for anyone feeding their local feathered friends, ahead of the Big Garden Birdwatch taking place at the end of this month. The organisation highlighted the importance of feeding birds during the harsh winter weather.
When choosing the correct type of bird feeder and food to put out, the RSPB wrote: “Choose suet, peanuts and seeds in hanging feeders during the winter. We recommend stopping the use of bird tables and other flat surfaces to feed because evidence suggests that damp food on flat surfaces can increase the risks of spreading disease.”
Previously, experts from Vine House Farm advised gardeners to cease using flat feeders such as tables and trays in light of the RSPB’s warning. Bird specialist Lucy Taylor said: “Providing garden birds with food on bird tables, ground trays and other small and confined flat surfaces, does carry a particular risk to the health of birds because of the increased chance of disease transmission.
“This is because the disease Tricomonosis – which especially affects Greenfinches and Chaffinches – can more easily be transmitted when an infected bird drops food onto the flat surface, which another bird then picks up.”
Bacteria from decaying food and waste from seed husks can accumulate on flat surfaces and lead to Salmonella, which can prove fatal to birds, according to the expert. She added: “But the good news is that these risks to birds can be greatly reduced if very regular and thorough cleaning is carried out on all types of bird feeders, plus other measures are taken.”
How to feed birds on flat surfaces safely
Regularly clean bird feeders
Lucy said: “If you are unable to regularly and thoroughly clean bird tables and other flat-surfaced feeders, you should avoid using these feeding methods. However, note that all types of bird feeders must be kept clean.”
The RSPB also stressed the importance of making sure your feeder is air-dried. It explained: “Wash and air-dry feeders regularly. Use a mild non-toxic disinfectant or washing up liquid.”
Take some time to also clean up around your bird feeder by sweeping up any fallen seeds regularly.
Rotate bird feeder locations to prevent disease
“Regularly change the location of all bird feeders in your garden. This includes bird tables, ground trays, hanging tube seed feeders, and hanging suet feeders. Birds often feed on food that has dropped to the ground, which can easily become contaminated by waste and droppings,” the expert added.
Consider alternatives to bird tables
Lucy advised: “Scattering bird food such as sunflower hearts on larger flat areas like decking, patios, driveways, or short-cut lawns is a good alternative to bird tables and ground trays. However, be sure to rotate the areas used. Ground feeding is especially important for species like blackbirds, which cannot easily use hanging feeders.”
Limit the amount of bird food provided
“No matter which ground feeding method you use, limit the amount of bird food you provide to what can be consumed within a single day. Additionally, switch to sunflower hearts or husk-free seed mixes if you haven’t already, as they generate far less waste and are more efficiently eaten by birds.
“Steer clear of low-cost bird food, particularly mixes. These are often not eaten by songbirds and may accumulate on the ground, bird table, or feeder, increasing the risk of disease.”
Maintain clean bird baths
“Clean bird baths daily and allow them to air dry before refilling. The drying process helps ensure that the Trichomonosis parasite does not survive. If you feed birds in your garden, please continue doing so. However, make hygiene your top priority to safeguard their health.”
Water in bird baths should be changed frequently.
