It seems almost daily we hear about disease being spread by birds and the possible transmission to humans and other animals. Research suggests that improperly maintained feeders can spread disease. However, we do not know if the risk for disease transmission is any higher at feeders than in the wild. In general, birds that contract and spread diseases at feeders tend to be more social than others, so they would naturally congregate in the wild.
According to the National Wildlife Health Center, there are five diseases that affect birds that visit bird feeders. The diseases are salmonellosis, aspergillosis, avian pox, trichomonias and mycopalmosis. All these diseases can lead to bird deaths either directly or indirectly by making the bird more vulnerable to predators. For more information about these diseases, visit http://www.wildlife.utah.gov/diseases/songbird_diseases.php
Consider these preventive measures to keep birds healthy and lessen the chance of spreading diseases from your bird feeder.
• Give them space. Avoid crowding by providing ample feeders.
• Keep the feeder area clean of waste food and droppings. A broom and shovel work well, but a wet/dry vacuum works even better.
• Make feeders physically safe. Use feeders with rounded corners. Feeders with sharp edges may cut birds, allowing an opening for bacteria to infect otherwise healthy birds.
• Clean and disinfect feeders at least once a month. Use one part of liquid chlorine bleach in nine parts of warm water. Make enough solution to immerse empty feeders completely for two to three minutes. Allow the feeder to air dry.
• Use quality food. Discard food that smells musty, is wet, looks old or has fungus growing on it. Clean and disinfect storage containers or scoops that are used for feed.
• Prevent contamination. Keep rodents and pets out of stored food. Rodents can carry and spread some bird diseases without being affected themselves.
• Spread the word. Tell your bird-feeding neighbors and friends about the risks. Since birds may use several feeders in a neighborhood, your feeder may not be safe until your neighbor’s feeder is safe.
Once you start feeding, chances are good that the birds will become regular visitors at your feeding station. Should you take a trip and your feeders go empty, it is good to know your regular visitors will not starve. Birds are opportunistic and will search for food elsewhere. However, if you leave town for a while and adverse weather sets in, have a neighbor or friend watch your feeders to reduce the stress on your bird guests.
Follow these precautions and you and your birds will continue to enjoy your bird-feeding efforts. Contact Terry Messmer, USU Extension Wildlife Specialist at terrym@ext.usu.edu for further information.
By: Terry Messmer - Dec. 16, 2008