Should we take down bird feeders?

Answered by Jeremy Urbaniak

There is ongoing debate about whether or not to take down bird feeders, particularly in relation to the spread of diseases among birds. However, there is no official recommendation to take down feeders unless you also keep domestic poultry.

The National Wildlife Disease Program does not recommend taking down bird feeders solely based on the risk of disease transmission. They state that the risk of disease transmission at bird feeders is relatively low compared to other factors such as direct contact with infected birds or their droppings. Furthermore, they emphasize that the benefits of bird feeding, such as supporting bird populations and providing opportunities for observation and enjoyment, outweigh the minimal risks.

The Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the United States Department of Agriculture have also stated that bird feeding is safe. They provide guidelines for maintaining clean feeders and bird baths to minimize the risk of disease transmission. These guidelines include regularly cleaning and disinfecting feeders, using feeders that are easy to clean, and removing accumulated debris and waste.

It is important to note that different diseases may have different transmission risks and precautions. For example, during outbreaks of highly contagious diseases like avian influenza, it may be necessary to temporarily suspend bird feeding to minimize the risk of transmission.

Personal experiences and observations can also provide insights into the potential risks and benefits of bird feeding. For instance, I have been feeding birds in my backyard for many years and have not encountered any significant disease issues. I regularly clean and maintain the feeders, ensuring they are in good condition and free from mold or other contaminants.

There is no official recommendation to take down bird feeders unless you also keep domestic poultry. The risk of disease transmission at bird feeders is generally low, and the benefits of bird feeding outweigh the minimal risks. By following proper cleaning and maintenance practices, such as regularly cleaning and disinfecting feeders, bird feeding can be a safe and enjoyable activity.