The RSPB has issued a warning against a specific type of bird feeder after results from its Big Garden Birdwatch (BGBW) revealed an alarming decline of greenfinches caused by trichomonosis – a disease commonly associated with dirty feeders.
This year's BGBW, held on the last weekend in January, saw more than 650,000 people across the UK record the birds visiting their gardens. The annual event helps build a clearer picture of how British garden birds are faring.
While many species remain stable, others are struggling. Greenfinch numbers, for example, have declined by a staggering 67.2% since the survey began in 1979. Ranked third from bottom in this year's count, the species is now on the UK Red List.
According to the RSPB, this sharp decline is largely due to trichomonosis, a common disease in garden birds that causes lesions in the throat, making it difficult or impossible for birds to swallow. Crucially, garden feeders can act as a hotbed for transmission.
“Feeding birds is something millions of us love and value, but the science shows us that birds such as greenfinches have been affected by the spread of disease at feeders,” said the charity's chief executive, Beccy Speight.
To tackle this issue, the RSPB is calling for the retirement of all types of flat-surface feeders, including bird tables. These designs pose a higher risk, as contaminated food can accumulate and be consumed by other birds.
Despite the warning, the charity emphasises that feeding birds remains beneficial – as long as it's done safely and at the appropriate time of year.
From 1 May to 31 October, the RSPB advises pausing feeding seed and peanuts to prevent too many birds gathering in one place, but says that offering small amounts of mealworms, fat balls or suet is still acceptable.
Alongside phasing out flat-surface feeders, the charity recommends cleaning and moving feeders weekly to prevent the build-up of contaminated debris gathering beneath them. Fresh water should only be provided if it can be changed daily, and bird baths should be cleaned weekly.
“We’re not asking people to stop feeding, just to feed in a way that protects birds’ long-term health,” Beccy added. “By making small changes together, we can ensure garden feeding continues to be a positive force for nature.”
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Wanda Sachs is the Multiplatform Writer for Country Living and House Beautiful, exploring the latest in gardening, wildlife and sustainable living alongside interiors and property. She is particularly interested in human-interest stories, the intersection of design and pop culture, and the evolving relationship between urban and rural life. Previously, she served as Associate Editor at The Berliner in Berlin, where she reported on culture and fashion. Wanda studied English and German at the Goethe University Frankfurt and Exeter University.
