‘Bird Feeder Diseases’
It is this time of year many people get great enjoyment out of watching birds in the back yards who frequent well stocked varieties of bird feeders.
This is a great hobby and there is nothing wrong with this as long as the bird feeders in question are disinfected on a regular basis.
Over the last couple of years we have seen an increase in cases of what we call ‘bird feeder diseases’. Diseases such as Trichomoniasis, Mycoplasmal Conjunctivitis (house finch eye disease) or Avian Pox.
The reason they are called ‘Bird Feeder Diseases’ is related to the congregating of birds at bird feeders causing wide spread transmission of these types of diseases.
Trichomoniasis
is an infectious disease caused by the microscopic parasites. It is commonly seen in doves and pigeons. We also see it in birds of prey who have consumed a pigeon or dove with the illness. Finches are sensitive to is as well.
The parasite invades the crop and esophagus and from can spread to the lungs and are sacs as well as the rest of the body. The effected birds have trouble swallowing and or breathing and as a result they are usually emaciated with matted feathers.
The disease is spread through food and water contaminated with regurgitated food, saliva or droppings from effected birds.
Mycoplasmal Conjunctivitis
Most often seen in house finches (hence the name house finch eye disease) and to a lesser extend in gold finches it can effect all members of the Fringillidae family.
It causes swollen crusty eyes which in turn causes vision loss. The disease is bacterial in nature and spread through contact, contaminated food and water.
Avian Pox
Avian pox is viral in nature and transmitted through insect bites, direct contact or contact with contaminated feed or water. It causes wart type lesions on the legs and head.
None of these diseases are considered a risk to humans, but all of them can be easily spread to other birds through contaminated food and water in areas birds crowd close together.
Some ways to prevent disease spreading:
- If you have a known outbreak of any of these diseases in your area please take down all bird feeders and baths
- Disinfect your bird feeders and bird baths at least once a week with Virkon or 10% sodium hypochlorite solution. Ensure the feeders are rinsed well and dried after.
- Use bird feeders that prevent the bird seed from getting wet to prevent mold growth
- Avoid using feed tables (sick birds sitting on the table can more easily contaminate the seed)
If you do see a sick bird at your bird feeder please contain the bird in a small cardboard box with air holes (make sure to wear gloves). These sick birds are usually not difficult to catch. Contact your local Wildlife Rehabilitator, SPCA, Humane Society or Animal Control Agency.
Please don’t try and doctor the animal yourself. Wildlife Rehabilitation should be done by fully licensed professionals only.
Happy birding!
