The RSPB has issued important new advice for anyone who likes feeding birds. It’s a big change from previous feeding advice and is aimed at reducing the spread of disease which has seen one species decline by over 65% in the last three decades.
The RSPB says that between May 1 and October 31 we should stop filling our bird feeders. It says: “We can help stop the spread of disease among garden birds by making two simple shifts to how we feed birds. Put simply: Feed seasonally. Feed safely.”
The RSPB says: “We all want to help birds and make our gardens or outdoor spaces a place where all wildlife can thrive. But some species, such as Greenfinches, are experiencing serious declines because of disease.
“Research has shown a worrying decline in some of our much-loved garden birds due to a disease called trichomonosis. This is a highly contagious disease and can spread where birds gather in large numbers such as at bird feeders.
“Greenfinches, for example, have dropped by over 65% in the last three decades – and you may have seen this decline yourself. Back when the Big Garden Birdwatch started in 1979, Greenfinches were at number seven in the top ten birds seen. This year they were down to number 18.”
As a result, the RSPB says it has been working with experts and now offers the following advice on bird feeding:
Between May 1 and October 31: Pause filling your bird feeders with seeds or peanuts. You can continue to offer small amounts of mealworms, fatballs or suet.Between November 1 and April 30: Feed your birds a full range of bird foods, including seeds and peanuts.
The reason for this advice is because busy bird feeders “can become hotspots for disease”. The RSPB says: “Stopping the spread of disease is a challenge we can’t tackle alone. By taking these simple steps to feed seasonally and safely, we can all help protect the future of our birds.”
The RSPB issues the following advice on feeding birds safely.
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