Want to help garden birds? Don’t feed them in warmer months, says RSPB
Want to help garden birds? Don’t feed them in warmer months, says RSPB
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is urging gardeners to pause their feeding routines from 1 May to 31 October to reduce the risk of spreading trichomonosis, a disease linked to declines in greenfinches and chaffinches. While feeding birds appears caring, it can inadvertently create conditions that favor disease outbreaks during milder weather.
The Spread of Trichomonosis
Trichomonosis is caused by a parasite that targets the mouth, throat, and upper digestive tracts, impairing birds’ ability to eat, drink, or breathe. Infected birds release the parasite through saliva and droppings, contaminating food sources. The parasite can also transfer to chicks when adults regurgitate food. This has led to a two-million drop in greenfinch numbers, placing them on the red list of endangered species.
Industry Response
The UK Pet Food industry estimates annual spending on bird food reaches £380 million, equivalent to 150,000 tonnes. This volume could sustain three times the breeding populations of the ten most common garden birds if used year-round. The RSPB advocates “feed seasonally, feed safely,” emphasizing hygiene and limited feeding during warmer months. Small quantities of mealworms, fat balls, and suet—enough for a day or two—can still be offered, but feeders should be cleaned weekly and relocated after each session to avoid ground contamination.
Water should be replenished daily, using only fresh tap water. Bird baths require weekly cleaning. The charity cites research indicating flat surfaces, like traditional bird tables, amplify disease risk by allowing debris to accumulate. As a result, the RSPB has discontinued flat feeder sales, signaling a shift away from these designs.
“It’s really nice to see them from the window – they look very chipper out there,” says Helen Rowe, a London resident. Despite enjoying the visits, she plans to suspend feeding during warmer months to support bird health.
Some argue the advice may not apply universally, given variations in natural food availability. Dick Woods, a feeder manufacturer, notes: “Every garden is different. In some places, food is so abundant that birds don’t rely on feeders; in others, there’s little alternative.” The RSPB acknowledges these differences but believes a straightforward message is more effective for behavior change, even if it takes years to implement.
The pet food sector has expressed concerns, calling the guidance a “significant change to long-established advice” and warning of potential confusion among millions of regular feeders. Yet, the charity remains committed to its strategy, aiming to slow disease transmission while balancing practicality with conservation goals.
