Warning Issued Over Potentially Deadly Bird Feeder Mistake In UK Gardens

We all want to help out our feathered friends – especially in these biting winter months when their food is more scarce than usual.

But there’s one garden mistake many of us might be making that could unintentionally cause harm to the British bird population.

According to wildlife expert Kate Macrae, known to millions as Wildlife Kate, we mustn’t forget about bird feeder hygiene.

“There are many diseases that can be passed around dirty feeders, causing death to species that we actually wanted to help,” she says.

The RSPB notes that diseases such as Trichomonsis – which has been a major factor in the decline of Britain’s greenfinch population – can be spread by contaminated food and drinking water.

So, how often should be cleaning bird feeders?

Macrae recommends having a couple of high-quality bird feeders that come apart completely for cleaning. You can clean them with warm soapy water and an animal-safe disinfectant spray.

The RSPB notes feeders and baths should be cleaned once a week – Macrae agrees, and she’ll typically wipe down all ports and perches every day. 

For those intent on keeping feeders filled right to the top with food, the wildlife expert, who has partnered with UK woodcare brand Protek, says high-quality food matters more than quality.

Sunflower hearts, sunflower seeds, suet pellets and balls are her top picks. She notes peanuts should be dispensed in a suitable feeder where they cannot be removed whole.

The RSPB also encourages people to not overfill their bird feeders (again, for cleanliness reasons). “Try and make sure they are being emptied every 1-2 days”, it suggested, and if you do need to refill them, make sure old food is emptied out first.

The wildlife charity recommends moving feeders regularly “to prevent the build up of bird food and droppings potentially contaminating the ground below”.

And don’t forget your bird baths and water dishes need a good clean, too.

“Again, remember that hygiene is paramount and clean the dish and put fresh water out daily,” Macrae adds.