Brits are being urged to take down bird feeders this summer to help protect vulnerable bird species from various strains of avian diseases.
According to the country’s biggest bird charity, it’s advised to avoid filling up birdfeeders, particularly during the summer months between May and October, because it can spread diseases.
One of the biggest concerns, according to the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), is the risk of trichomonosis, which experts believe is contributing to a vast decline in greenfinches and chaffinches.
It’s thought that the greenfinch population, in particular, has already decreased by 2 million, and they are now considered endangered.
According to bird experts, bird feeders full of seeds might be one way these diseases are spreading, as food sources become contaminated with the saliva and poo of infected birds.
Here’s everything you need to know and what you can do to help British birds this summer.
Jacek Stankiewicz / Comedywildlife
What is trichomonosis in birds?
Trichomonosis is a disease caused by the parasite Trichomonas gallinae.
The parasite attacks the throat, mouth and digestive tracks of birds, making it hard for them to breathe and eat.
It’s contagious and can specifically impact pigeons, doves, as well as smaller species such as house sparrows and finches.
Although the disease is not always fatal, it can be deadly, particularly in younger birds.
The disease can be treated, often by administering antibiotic treatments through the bird’s drinking water.
How to help British birds this summer
According to the RSPB, this isn’t about stopping bird feeding entirely, but we may need to adjust how we do it.
The updated guidance is to “feed seasonally, feed safely”.
“Feeding birds is something millions of us love and value, but the science shows us that birds such as greenfinches have been affected by the spread of disease at feeders,” says Beccy Speight, chief executive of the RSPB.
“We’re not asking people to stop feeding, just to feed in a way that protects birds’ long-term health. By making small changes together, we can ensure garden feeding continues to be a positive force for nature.”
This summer, it’s advised that people remove bird feeders with seeds and instead provide small amounts of mealworms and fat balls during the summer months.
That’s because the parasite can live longer in warmer months, making it easier for the disease to spread during the summer.
Alternative feeding methods ensure that there are fewer clusters of birds feeding at the same time.
According to the RSPB, water should be provided only if it can be changed almost daily, and bird baths should be cleaned at least once a week.