Moisture in feeders can cause deadly disease among birds

[SheltieLover]

https://wach.com/amp/news/local/moisture-in-feeders-can-cause-deadly-disease-among-birds

Snip

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.”

More at link.

[SergeStorms]

1. I clean my feeders...

once a week, unless it's been dry all week. I know people who never clean them, and that's just inviting disease for our feathered friends.

[mikeysnot]

2. Thank you for this. I did not know this

Cleaned out my two feeders and reloaded them just in time for the polar vortex.

[SheltieLover]

3. Yw!

I didn't know either.