Gardeners have been issued a warning over ‘infected’ bird feeders that can pose a health risk to several species of birds.
As March looms, the nesting season will see young birds gradually leave their nests to explore their surroundings and join their flocks in the hunt for tasty treats.
Feeding stations are an ideal way to provide an extra food source for many bird species – but Brits have been warned to check their bird feeder is clean and safe from disease before installing them in gardens.
According to wildlife expert Richard Green, of Kennedy Wild Bird Food & Pet Supplies, bird feeders can spread parasites, fungal infections and deadly diseases, such as finch Trichomonosis.
In light of this, the expert has shared several often-overlooked signs that a bird feeder may be infected, and has issued tips on how to make sure feeding stations are clean and safe.
In addition, certain species are more likely to carry diseases than others, as some common bird types travel in flocks, meaning they spread more quickly.
Read on to find out how you can prevent the spread of disease in birds by keeping feeding stations clean in your garden this spring.
Gardeners have been issued a warning over ‘infected’ bird feeders that can pose a health risk to several species of birds (stock image)
Which birds are most likely to carry infections?
According to Richard, certain species, such as Greenfinches, Chaffinches, Siskins, House Sparrows, and Collared Doves, are most vulnerable to diseases.
These social birds are most as risk as they tend to feed in flocks, with frequent close contact encouraging illnesses to spread more rapidly.
What are the signs your bird feeder is infected?
Conjunctivitis
Finch eye conjunctivitis is a ‘clear indicator’ that your bird feeder may be harbouring disease.
According to Richard, symptoms to watch for in birds include swollen, crusty eyes, difficulty seeing, and unusually subdued behaviour.
Food quality
Bird food that is shrivelled or unusually dark in appearance, or has a dusty coating, could indicate a sign of contamination.
Richard advised to ‘avoid’ these low-quality seeds as they are ‘more likely to carry harmful bacteria or mould’.
Overcrowded feeders
According to the expert, overcrowded feeding stations not only stresses birds, but can increase their chances of contracting disease.
When birds are jostling for space, they are more likely to spread parasites such as lice, mites and ticks, which can lead to further health complications.
Richard added: ‘To reduce these risks, it’s a good idea to spread food across multiple feeders and avoid overcrowding in one area.’
According to wildlife expert Richard Green, of Kennedy Wild Bird Food & Pet Supplies, bird feeders can spread parasites, fungal infections and deadly diseases (stock image)
Dropped food
Food that has been discarded or dropped around the feeder can quickly become contaminated with diseases such as Trichomoniasis.
Infected birds drop food that contain the parasite, which is then ingested or picked up by others, which spreads the disease.
Damp or dirty feeders
Bird feeders that become damp or dirty can become a breeding ground for fungal infections such as Aspergillosis and bacteria such as Salmonella.
It’s important to check for mouldy conditions or excessive droppings around the feeder to prevent the spread of disease.
Richard advised to regularly clean bird feeders, which includes removing old food, droppings and any standing water.
Replace your birdseed regularly
It’s crucial to replace birdseed regularly, especially if it becomes wet, as they are more vulnerable to mould, which can be harmful to birds.
Richard urged: ‘If you notice that your feeder isn’t being visited frequently, try moving it to a new location or offering a different type of seed to attract more birds.’
How to properly clean your bird feeder
Richard stressed the importance of using the right precautions when cleaning your bird feeder, such as wearing disposable gloves and soaking the feeder in a diluted bleach solution to ensure it’s thoroughly disinfected.
It’s advised to rinse the bird feeder well and allow it to dry before refilling it with seed.
Richard added: ‘The amount of times you clean your bird feeder should be adjusted based on how often it’s used. For busy feeders, clean them every two to three seed refills.
‘If you notice any signs of disease in the birds around your feeder, it’s important to clean and remove the feeder for at least two weeks to prevent further transmission.’
For those who are unable to regularly clean their bird feeder, the expert shared alternative ways to support wildlife, such as installing nest boxes, planting native plants, or leaving natural areas in gardens undisturbed.
