RSPB stops selling flat bird feeders
The RSPB has removed flat bird feeders from its online store due to concerns that they may facilitate the spread of serious diseases among finches. The organization has indicated that feeding birds from flat surfaces, like tables, could be linked to the transmission of illnesses such as finch trichomonosis, which has significantly impacted the greenfinch population.
In a message to customers, the charity stated: “We recognize that many of you enjoy feeding birds in your gardens, and certain species greatly benefit from additional food, particularly during winter. However, there is growing evidence that feeding practices can have adverse effects, including the spread of disease, especially among finches.
“As a precautionary step, while we await the results of an ongoing review, we have halted the sale of all bird tables and related products, including table mix and table mix extra, window feeders, and feeder guardians with trays. This decision is based on evidence suggesting that some birds, especially finches, may be at a higher risk of disease when fed from flat surfaces.”
Concerns about the greenfinch have been raised by scientists and birdwatchers alike, as its population has declined by 63% since 1993 due to a severe trichomonosis outbreak caused by the parasite Trichomonas gallinae. The species was placed on the red list in 2021, indicating it is at risk. Researchers believe that the most likely mode of infection transmission occurs when birds share regurgitated food during breeding or through food and water contaminated with saliva. The chaffinch population has also been experiencing a decline.
Other conservation organisations have commented on the RSPB's decision. Jon Carter from the British Trust for Ornithology remarked: “Research shows that there are both advantages and disadvantages to feeding the wild birds that visit our gardens. We acknowledge the concerns regarding potential negative impacts, particularly those associated with the rise of infectious diseases like finch trichomonosis. ”
The findings from this research inform the guidance we offer regarding feeding practices, and we will continue to revise this guidance as new information becomes available. He noted that the study on the potential for flat surfaces to transmit diseases is still ongoing.
Carter emphasized that it is acceptable for individuals to provide food for birds during winter, provided they regularly clean their feeders to prevent disease transmission. “Our current recommendation is to ensure consistent hygiene for feeders and bird baths, and to cease feeding only if there are indications of illness. As a safety measure, people may want to refrain from using flat surfaces for bird feeding.
“We will revise our recommendations once the pertinent research is finalized and the findings are published through peer review. The RSPB's choice to discontinue certain feeder types aligns with a precautionary strategy, and we endorse this decision.”
15 January 2025
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