Wildlife experts are urging the public to take action as a highly infectious disease contributes to the decline of some of the UK's most beloved garden birds. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) identifies the illness as trichomonosis, which has severely impacted species such as greenfinches and chaffinches, leading to significant population declines.
Understanding Trichomonosis
Trichomonosis is a highly contagious disease that spreads rapidly where birds gather in large numbers, particularly at bird feeders. The risk is greatest during summer and autumn when birds congregate at feeding stations. The RSPB emphasizes that simple changes to feeding habits can help lower infection risks.
How to Help Protect Garden Birds
To curb the spread of infection, bird lovers are advised to stop filling feeders with seeds and peanuts from May 1 to October 31. Small amounts of mealworms, fatballs, or suet can still be offered, as these foods attract fewer birds to the same spot. Gardeners should thoroughly clean bird feeders and bird baths at least once a week using hot soapy water and a bird-safe disinfectant.
Regularly relocating feeders to different spots in the garden prevents large numbers from gathering in one place. Avoid using bird tables or flat-surfaced feeders, as contaminated food can accumulate and heighten infection risk. Only provide enough food for a day or two and keep it as dry as possible.
Water Safety
The trichomonosis parasite can survive in water. Experts suggest putting out only tap water for birds if it can be changed daily. If a nearby pond is available, it provides the best water source for birds.
RSPB Guidance
An RSPB spokesperson stated: "We have carefully balanced the benefits of feeding against the risks of disease, and we believe that we can continue to feed our garden birds, as long as we feed the right types of food at the right time of year. By following our guidance to feed seasonally and feed safely, we can all help protect the future of our birds."
Beccy Speight, CEO of the RSPB, added: "We're not asking people to stop feeding, just to feed in a way that protects birds' long-term health."
Broader Bird Decline
Starlings are now classified as a red-listed species following a significant decline. The UK's breeding population has plummeted by 82% between 1970 and 2022. Experts remain uncertain about the exact cause, but modern farming methods leading to a decline in grassland and insects, as well as new housing and development reducing safe nesting spots, are possible explanations.
