The RSPB is set to revise its guidance on garden bird feeding in November, following a spring appeal to stop using feeders because of trichomonosis, a disease that wildlife researcher Jack Baddams says has killed millions of birds.
Speaking to BBC Morning Live presenters Helen Skelton and Gethin Jones, Baddams explained that the earlier advice to halt feeding was issued amid growing concern about disease transmission at feeders. He said the RSPB told people to stop feeding seeds and peanuts through the warmer months because trichomonosis spreads between finches at feeders.
What Changes in November
Baddams confirmed that from November, the advice will be updated. He said it will be acceptable to hang seed and peanut feeders again, provided they are cleaned regularly. He recommended cleaning feeders once a week, along with any water areas such as bird baths where birds may drink.
He also stressed the importance of moving feeders around the garden to prevent disease building up in one spot. Baddams suggested moving a feeder each time it is refilled to avoid repeated contamination in the same location.
Flat Feeders and Natural Feeding
Baddams advised gardeners to stop using flat-surfaced feeders altogether, including bird tables, window feeders and AI smart bird feeders with cameras. He said these are problematic because birds can defecate in the same area where they eat, which is bad for disease spread.
He encouraged building a natural ecosystem in the garden rather than relying on feeders. Baddams also urged homeowners not to clear away fallen leaves, suggesting they be raked into borders to provide overwintering habitat for invertebrates and worms, which attract birds such as blackbirds and robins.
