Kitchen Garden Forum

Researches are asking the public to help track the spread of bird pox. It particularly affects great tits.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-14380813

Last year, I remember hearing about the spread of 'trichomoniasis' in greenfinches. The report stated that the infection was visible as birds appeared to have food debris around the beak, I think that the consequence was choking and subsequent death. I know that this risk extends to other finches, fortunately I have never seen an example of it. The advice at the time was to ensure that water baths etc were kept clean and fresh water added on a regular basis. After the harsh winters that we have had over the past three years, birds seem to be facing enough adversity, it is sad to think that they face yet more challenges. As a note, I now wash out my feeders once a month.

Hi Sincerity, yes, they do advise regular cleaning of bird feeders and water baths. After that hard winter bird pox is the last thing they need, fortunately like you I have not seen any suffering with the problem.