The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is calling on UK households to remove traditional bird feeders from May through October to help reduce the spread of trichomonosis, a parasitic disease affecting garden birds. This illness spreads more easily when birds, especially finches, gather in groups around feeders during the warmer months.
In its latest guidance, the RSPB encourages people to “feed safely and feed seasonally” by taking down feeders filled with seeds and peanuts during this period. Instead, homeowners can offer small amounts of protein-rich foods such as mealworms, fat balls, or suet, which are less likely to attract large clusters of birds and provide essential nutrients for feeding chicks.
Beccy Speight, Chief Executive of the RSPB, explained, “Feeding birds is a cherished activity for millions, but science shows that diseases like trichomonosis have impacted species such as greenfinches at feeders. We are not asking people to stop feeding altogether, but to adapt their feeding habits to safeguard birds’ long-term health.”
A spokesperson from the RSPB added, “Our advice is clear and straightforward: feed safely and feed seasonally. Small amounts of mealworms or fat balls can be safely offered throughout the year without increasing disease risks.”
The RSPB acknowledges the joy and wellbeing bird feeding brings to many people and emphasizes the important role of garden feeders in helping wild birds thrive. This year, over 650,000 participants joined the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch, reflecting the nation’s passion for garden wildlife.
“We hope that this community of bird enthusiasts will embrace our recommendations to protect birds by feeding in ways that reduce disease transmission. Ultimately, helping birds survive is at the heart of why so many people feed them,” the RSPB stated.