The California Department of Fish and Game (DFG) is encouraging California residents to take additional steps to keep bird feeders clean. An outbreak of mycoplasmosis, a disease affecting finches, but not humans, was recently discovered in the Danville/Alamo area.
“Weekly cleaning of bird feeders must be done to minimize the risk of spreading the disease among finches and other birds,” said Dr. Pam Swift, a DFG wildlife veterinarian.
Mycoplasmosis is a bacteria-like disease that has been discovered for the first time in wild finches in California. Affected birds develop an eye infection that may lead to blindness and breathing difficulties. Birds may then rub their heads on branches and feeders, increasing the risk of spreading the disease. The types of feeders that force birds to stick their heads inside are especially problematic because the birds’ eyes come into direct contact with the sides of the tubes.
To help control the disease, DFG biologists are urging residents to begin aggressively cleaning bird feeders weekly by using a 10 percent solution of household bleach in water. The feeders should be completely dried before adding new food. Other suggestions include:
* Clean up old food around feeders on a regular basis.
* Spread small amounts of seed over a large area in the sun, instead of using bird boxes or feeders. Also, vary the location of seeds to avoid encouraging a concentration of birds at one site.
* Replace wooden bird feeders with plastic or metal ones, as wood harbors disease organisms and cannot be sanitized as effectively.
* Use gloves when handling dead birds and bird feeders, and wash hands with anti-bacterial soap when finished.
Residents are encouraged to take these added steps at least through the end of May, while those who enjoy bird feeding should continue the practice of regular bird feeder cleaning, up to a weekly interval, outside of this outbreak.
–SPM Wire
