Bird Feeders

August 25, 2022

Question: In response to recent warnings about avian flu in wild birds, I have taken down my bird feeders and bird baths. When is it OK to put them back out?

Answer: Infection with avian influenza viruses among songbirds, including many common backyard birds, appears to be relatively rare. However, feeding and providing water to wild birds is generally discouraged because the increased congregation of wild birds at bird feeders and bird baths may lead to fecal contamination of the local environment, which can aid in disease transmission. While the risk of avian influenza to most songbird species appears low, there are other more common diseases, such as avian pox and avian trichomonosis, that periodically circulate among wild birds that may cause increased mortality during outbreaks. Rather than providing bird seed to wild birds, a healthier option would be to provide natural sources of food by landscaping with native plants, if possible. This will benefit wild birds and pollinators like butterflies and bees.

If you do choose to have bird feeders and bird baths, it is generally recommended that bird feeders and bird baths are thoroughly cleaned outdoors at least once a week, and more often if there is heavy use by birds. Disposable gloves should be worn and hands should be thoroughly washed after handling of bird feeders and bird baths. Please note, some pathogens can persist in water, on surfaces or in soil for hours to days, so even the most rigorous cleaning may not be enough to stop all disease transmission. If backyard chickens or other captive birds such as ducks, geese, pigeons, doves and parrots are present in the area, it’s strongly recommended not to have bird feeders and bird baths, and to exclude wild birds from accessing chicken feed and water.