The RSPB has advised gardeners to stop feeding birds seeds and nuts from May to October to reduce the spread of avian diseases such as trichomonosis, which has devastated greenfinch populations. Instead, the charity recommends offering small amounts of protein-rich foods like mealworms, fat balls, or suet, which are less likely to attract large flocks of finches.
Trichomonosis, a parasitic disease transmitted through saliva at feeders, thrives in warmer months and has contributed to a 67% decline in greenfinch numbers since 1979, according to the Big Garden Birdwatch survey. An estimated six million greenfinches and chaffinches have died from the disease in recent years.
“Feeding birds is something millions of us love, but the science shows that birds such as greenfinches have been affected by disease spread at feeders,” said Beccy Speight, RSPB chief executive. “We’re not asking people to stop feeding, just to feed in a way that protects birds’ long-term health.”
The RSPB also advises cleaning and moving feeders weekly, and changing water daily. During winter, seed feeders can be used, but flat surfaces like bird tables should be avoided due to higher contamination risk. The charity encourages planting sunflowers, teasels, and ivy to provide natural food sources.
