Moisture in feeders can cause deadly disease among birds

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WACH) - In our cold weather month’s birds need to spend more energy to keep warm which often means they are more likely to visit bird feeders.

Not only are these our coldest months of the year but the transition from winter into spring are also are wettest months of the year.

Amy Tegeler is the Bird Conservation Coordinator with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, she says just a little moisture in birdseed can cause big problems.

“Wet weather caused by rain or humidity can cause mold to grow on birdseed,” says Tegeler. “Birds can get sick from eating moldy bird seed because the mold can cause a fatal avian disease called aspergillosis, with affects the birds respiratory system.”

Tegeler says cleaning feeders regularly can help keep our feathered visitors healthy. It's also smart to keep birdseed in a water proof and rodent proof container.

“Seed feeders should be thoroughly cleaned at least once a month with one-part liquid bleach to nine-parts hot water,” says Tegeler. “Allow the feeders to soak for 10 minutes to help loosen debris, then use a brush to clean all the feeder parts inside and out. Rinse the feeder for at least 10 seconds in clean water and allow the feeders to dry completely before refilling them with seeds.”

Nectar feeders need to be cleaned thoroughly as well, Tegeler says because of their design they need special care.

“Nectar should be changed before it is spoiled or cloudy, which can be every 3-4 days in warmer months to reduce mold and help prevent fermentation,” says Tegeler. “The feeders should be cleaned every time they are refilled using one-part bleach to nine-parts hot water or four-parts hot water to one-part vinegar. Visually inspect the feeder for black mold and use a brush to clean the small holes. Then rinse all parts of the feeder with water and allow it to dry before refilling.”

By spreading out your feeders you can reduce the spread of sickness between birds due to crowding. Tegeler says it’s also important you clean nearby areas where spilled birdseed may be rotting.

“If someone notices unhealthy birds they should remove all their bird feeders, clean them thoroughly, and wait at least two weeks before putting the feeders back out,” says Tegeler.

The birds may have to wait for a while, but at least we can make sure when they do return, we’re doing what we can to keep them happy and healthy.

MORE STORIES:

Deputy: Woman shot at nail salon

Richland County Sheriff's Department Chaplain dies from coronavirus