There is a new recommendation for people who feed birds in their gardens: it is better to avoid feeding birds between May and October. This advice was given because of a disease called trichomoniasis, which affects birds like greenfinches, chaffinches, and goldfinches.
This disease causes swelling in the birds’ throats. Over time, they cannot eat properly and may die from starvation. Sadly, there is no treatment or cure.
According to BirdWatch Ireland expert Niall Hatch, bird feeders can help spread the disease, especially in warmer months when the parasite survives more easily. Studies also show that greenfinch numbers in Ireland have dropped by about 50% in the last 10 years.
The updated guidance suggests:
- It is best to avoid feeding birds from May to October
- Feeding birds is still encouraged from November to April
- If using feeders, keep them clean, hanging, and regularly disinfected
- Plant native plants to support birds with natural food like seeds, berries, and insects
It is important to note that this disease does not affect humans or mammals and is not linked to bird flu.
BirdWatch Ireland explains that this change is to protect bird populations and reduce the spread of the disease.
👉 Read more here:
https://www.thejournal.ie/public-urged-not-to-feed-birds-in-their-garden-between-may-and-october-7028601-May2026/