CORVALLIS, Ore. — Avian flu makes headlines whenever it surfaces in domestic or wild bird populations, but experts say the illness poses very little risk to native songbirds. That means there’s no general need to take down backyard feeders.
“Veterinarians tell us there is very low risk to native songbirds from the highly pathogenic avian influenza strain,” said Dana Sanchez, Oregon State University Extension Service wildlife specialist. “At this time there is no official recommendation to remove wild bird feeders. We still recommend good everyday hygiene by regularly cleaning feeders and birdbaths because of salmonella, mold and the other common health concerns we can prevent with regular cleaning.”
Regardless of avian flu, feeders should be cleaned at least once a week. Moisture encourages mold in seed, while droppings can spread disease.
Steps for safe cleaning:
- Discard leftover seed.
- Scrub inside and out with a long-handled brush.
- Rinse with a bleach solution of 10 parts water to 1 part bleach.
- Let dry thoroughly before refilling.
Protect backyard poultry
Owners of backyard flocks should still take precautions to limit the spread of avian flu, said Ryan Scholz, Oregon Department of Agriculture state veterinarian. Recommendations include:
- Build fences to prevent wild ducks and geese from mingling with domestic birds.
- Clean shoes and clothing after visiting parks or areas with waterfowl.
- Report sick birds to the Oregon Department of Agriculture, a local veterinarian, or call the state veterinarian at 503-986-4711.
Choose high-quality seed
For those who enjoy feeding wild birds, Sanchez recommends avoiding seed mixes with fillers such as millet, flax or oats. Birds usually toss these aside, where they sprout as weeds or attract rodents.
Preferred foods include:
- Black oil sunflower seeds for chickadees, grosbeaks, sparrows, flickers and more.
- Nyjer (thistle) seed for finches.
- Fruit for waxwings, grosbeaks, chickadees and robins.
- Suet in fall and winter when birds need extra calories. Check suet in warm weather since it can spoil quickly.
Create safe feeding areas
Whether in small patios or large gardens, feeders work best when placed near shelter.
“Birds at feeders are always on the lookout for danger,” Sanchez said. “If there’s not a shrub nearby, they won’t use them. Having food somewhat close to cover is a key consideration.”
Birds also need clean, fresh water in shallow dishes refreshed daily. And for those encouraging wildlife, Sanchez cautions against using chemicals such as weed-and-feed or moss killers in the yard.
“We really need to be thinking about what we’re putting on our gardens,” she said. “We need to be cautious.”
Previously titled Experts: It’s OK to leave up bird feeders as avian flu outbreak reaches state
