Gardeners have been urged to adopt a simple two-bowl trick this June and beyond to help safeguard birds from a deadly disease. This advice comes amid an alarming increase in illness among popular garden bird species, driven by the spread of the trichomonosis parasite. While finches are particularly vulnerable, other birds are also at risk.
Understanding Trichomonosis
Trichomonosis is a contagious disease caused by a parasite that attacks the upper digestive tract and throat of birds. It creates lesions in the gullet, preventing birds from swallowing and absorbing essential nutrients. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) notes that this disease has devastated Greenfinch and Chaffinch populations and may also be contributing to a rapid decline among Bullfinches.
During the summer months, when the parasite thrives, bird feeders and bird baths become potential danger zones for transmission. Birds often defecate in water, contaminating it and increasing the risk of infection.
The Two-Bowl Trick
Dick Woods, founder of Finches Friend, shared tips with Country Living on how to provide for birds while minimizing disease risk. He advises against using traditional bird baths and instead suggests creating a water ring using two bowls. Place a shallow bowl and then a slightly smaller bowl inside it. Fill the gap between them with water, allowing birds to drink without having space to defecate.
RSPB's Updated Guidance
The RSPB has revised its feeding advice for the summer months. Previously, the charity recommended providing seeds and peanuts year-round, especially during breeding season. However, after an evidence review revealed that supplementary feeding promotes disease spread, the RSPB now advises against putting seeds and peanuts in feeders from May 1 to October 31.
Finches primarily eat seeds and will also consume peanuts, but they rarely eat fatballs, suet, or mealworms. These alternative foods are considered safe to offer during summer. By limiting finches' favorite foods, gardeners can prevent birds from clustering around feeders and instead encourage them to seek natural food sources abundant in summer.
For more details on seasonal feeding and disease prevention, visit the RSPB website.
