On the Wildside: Should we be feeding the garden birds?

Some organisations strongly advocate that gardeners stop feeding birds during the summer breeding season. The logic of this is the need to prevent the spread of nasty diseases that, for some decades now, have affected vulnerable bird populations. In particular a tiny parasitic microorganism infects birds such as finches, and particularly greenfinches, to produce a very unpleasant and generally fatal ‘pox’. The birds become very lethargic and look dishevelled, and ‘sad’. Greenfinches are especially prone to the problem which has caused a massive national decline, in some areas to the point of extinction. However, it isn’t all bad news because in some locations there seems to be a degree of ‘bounce-back’ and possibly birds developing a degree of resistance to infection.

In my own area, recent years have seen increases to up to ten or so birds in winter and two to three breeding pairs in summertime, overall, a ‘good news’ situation. So, whilst the disease is bad, perhaps stopping feeding is not always the answer, but cleanliness at feeding stations is. My observations suggest that breeding season food supplements in the garden are vital to the success and survival of birds like blue tits, greenfinches, and many others.

Indeed, with increasing pressures of intensive farming on habitat and food in the countryside, and a growing squeeze on the urban-fringe Green Belt lands too, wild food is increasingly scarce. Advocates of ‘no feeding’ advice do suggest planting of bird-friendly plants, but of course this is a matter of long-term planning and expected future benefits. I wholeheartedly support the idea of bird-friendly planting in gardens and local greenspaces, which will trigger longer-term benefits.

However, in the short-term, I still advise would-be wildlife gardeners to continue to feed the birds during the summertime. The riders to this are to reduce food amounts, use hanging feeders only, and keep them meticulously clean. It is best to avoid bird-tables because they can harbour the parasitic diseases.

Professor Ian D. Rotherham, researcher, writer & broadcaster on wildlife & environmental issues, is contactable on [email protected]; follow Ian’s blog (https://ianswalkonthewildside.wordpress.com/) and Twitter @IanThewildside

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