Summary
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), a UK charity, advises people to avoid feeding garden birds between May and October to prevent disease spread. A disease called trichomonosis has significantly reduced populations of birds like greenfinches, which are now endangered.
Key Facts
- The RSPB advises not feeding garden birds from May 1 to October 31 to prevent disease spread.
- Trichomonosis, a disease affecting birds' mouths and throats, has reduced greenfinch populations by two million in the UK.
- Over 16 million UK households regularly feed garden birds, potentially creating disease hotspots.
- The RSPB advises feeding small amounts of certain foods like mealworms but stresses the importance of hygiene.
- The charity recommends cleaning feeders weekly and changing water daily to minimize disease risk.
- Flat bird feeders are no longer recommended, as they can accumulate contaminants.
- The UK bird food industry is worth about £380 million annually, with significant amounts of food provided to garden birds.
