Cleaning Bird Feeders Can Prevent Disease

The disease that recently killed thousands of mallards along a rural stream southeast of Burley, is among the diseases that also affect the small birds that come to backyard feeders. The aspergillus fungus grows on damp bird seed and in the debris that accumulates on the ground below feeders. Birds are infected by ingesting or inhaling mold spores from contaminated seed. To reduce the risk of disease, store seed in a dry place and throw away any seed that has become wet or moldy. Clean and disinfect storage containers as well. Clean bird feeders a couple of times a month or more often if sick birds are seen around the feeder. Hummingbird feeders should be cleaned more often-at least once a week-and they should be taken down in winter to encourage hummers to migrate. Wash feeders with warm soapy water and disinfect by soaking in a 10 percent bleach solution for two or three minutes. Let the feeder air dry before refilling it. Clean up the spilled seed below the feeder before it gets moldy.