Garden Birds - Changing diseases

With increasing numbers of bird species visiting gardens it is possible that there might be negative implications for disease transmission. Species that would not normally meet in close proximity are now mixing at garden feeding stations, offering opportunities for diseases to diversify. For example, it is likely that the sudden appearance of finch trichomonosis in 2005 resulted from the mixing of finch and pigeon species. The increase in numbers of birds congregating in gardens might also provide opportunities for diseases to spread more rapidly. The new strain of avian pox virus causing severe skin lesions in Great Tits can be spread via biting insects or through direct and indirect contact that could occur at garden feeding stations.

Washing garden feeding equipment regularly with disinfectant or dilute bleach solution is essential to help prevent the spread of diseases. Some are spread by direct contact between birds and others can be transmitted from bird to surface to bird. I use a feeder hygiene brush produced by ChapelWood. It is ideal for removing stubborn stains on wild bird products, has an extra long handle and extra strong bristles and well worth the £2.99 cost.

The ubiquitous Woodpigeon