The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) has issued updated guidance for bird feeding, urging gardeners to avoid offering seeds and peanuts during nesting season to reduce the spread of disease. The warmer months provide an excellent opportunity to observe wildlife, but the breeding season places additional strain on birds as insect populations decline and weather conditions fluctuate, limiting natural food sources for young birds.
Risks of Trichomonosis
Homeowners have been advised to refrain from providing two common food items—seeds and peanuts—as they can increase the risk of transmitting trichomonosis, a potentially fatal disease. This illness causes severe lesions in the throat and upper digestive tract of infected birds, leading to difficulty swallowing, lethargy, and weight loss. It predominantly affects finches, especially Greenfinches and Chaffinches, as well as pigeons and doves.
Research-Based Recommendations
The RSPB, in collaboration with scientists, studied bird feeding practices and previously advised stopping the use of seeds and peanuts to curb disease transmission. This year, further modifications have been recommended. Based on research, bird enthusiasts are advised to discontinue feeding seeds and peanuts between May 1 and October 31, which coincides with the nesting season. Trichomonosis spreads more easily during summer and autumn, with bird feeders acting as a breeding ground for the illness.
Alternative Foods: Suet and Mealworms
Instead, the RSPB recommends two alternative high-protein, high-fat foods: suet and mealworms. Nesting season is a demanding period for birds, requiring energy-rich foods. Mealworms are an excellent substitute for natural invertebrates like caterpillars, which birds would normally forage. Species such as robins, wrens, starlings, and others readily accept them. To help fledglings absorb nutrients, the RSPB suggests soaking mealworms in water to soften them. The charity advises: "You can scatter a small amount on the floor but do ensure they all get eaten within one day, before dusk, to prevent any being left for Hedgehogs."
Suet as a Fat Supplement
Suet provides a fat-rich supplement beneficial for birds like Long-tailed Tits, thrushes, Nuthatches, House Sparrows, and woodpeckers. However, during hot weather, suet can melt and turn rancid. The RSPB warns: "Our recommendation is to avoid putting out suet products that include visible whole large seeds, such as sunflower seeds, as these are more likely to attract finches." By following these guidelines, gardeners can support bird populations while minimizing disease risks.
