๐จ Bird Lovers, Take Note! ๐จ

If you enjoy feeding our feathered friends in your garden, the RSPB has an important update for you. As the winter chill sets in, here’s a heads-up about the types of feeders you should avoid to keep your favourite birds healthy. ๐ฆ
๐ Say no to flat bird feeders! Research suggests they’re not the safest option since they can harbour and spread diseases like Trichomonosis, which primarily affects greenfinches and chaffinches. We all want to see our garden birds thrive, not face harm! ๐

The dramatic 69% decline in greenfinch numbers from 2008-2018 is a clear sign that we need to change our bird-feeding habits. So, what can you do?

๐ Opt for hanging feeders filled with suet, peanuts, and seeds. These are far safer during the winter months when birds need a bit of extra help.
๐ Regularly clean all types of bird feeders. A mild, non-toxic disinfectant or washing-up liquid works wonders. Remember to air-dry them thoroughly after washing.
๐ Rotate feeder locations to prevent contamination and keep things fresh. This includes tables, trays, and any ground feeding areas.
๐ก Consider scattering bird food on larger flat areas like patios or driveways as a bird table alternative. Just make sure to rotate these areas too!
โณ Only put out enough food for one day’s feeding to prevent waste buildup.
Remember, cleanliness is key. Your efforts in maintaining hygiene can’t be overstated and will go a long way in keeping garden birds healthy. ๐งผโจ
Don’t stop feeding them this winter – they need your help! Just make hygiene your top priority and keep your garden a haven for healthy birds. ๐ฟโค๏ธ
Share your birdfeeding setups in the comments! ๐ก๐