We completely understand why people are asking that question.

The important thing is that feeding birds can still be done safely - when it’s done properly.

Our focus is on helping people understand how to feed responsibly, with clean food, good hygiene, and practical guidance that supports bird health.

Feeding birds isn’t the problem - poor feeding habits can be.

When food is left to build up, becomes damp, or feeders aren’t cleaned
regularly, that’s when risks increase. Done properly, feeding continues to support bird health.

They’re referring to a disease called trichomonosis, which has affected species like greenfinches.

It spreads more easily where birds gather and where contaminated food or water is present.

That’s why good hygiene and fresh feeding are so important.

If birds appear lethargic, fluffed up, or have swollen eyes, pause feeding immediately and clean all feeders and areas thoroughly. Allow birds to disperse naturally, which helps reduce the spread of pathogens . If necessary, consult a wildlife expert for guidance.

Seeds and peanuts can still be part of a safe feeding routine.

What matters most is how they’re used - feeding little and often, keeping food fresh and dry, and avoiding build-up.

It’s the feeding habits that reduce risk, not simply removing certain foods.

Mealworms and suet are often fed in smaller amounts and don’t tend to build up in the same way, which can help reduce certain risks.

But the most important factor is still how feeding is managed - cleanliness, freshness, and moderation.

With the right approach, a range of foods can be used safely.

Feeders are safe when used properly.

The key is to keep them clean, move them regularly (ideally once a week), and avoid leaving uneaten food to build up.

Good hygiene is one of the most effective ways to reduce risk and also helps to discourage pets.

As a guide, feeders should be cleaned at least once a week - more often in warmer weather or if they’re heavily used.

Use warm, soapy water or a wildlife-safe disinfectant, such as Safe4. Rinse thoroughly and allow the equipment to dry completely before refilling. For heavily used feeding areas, daily cleaning may be necessary.

Be sure to remove any old or damp food and allow feeders to dry before refilling.

If you have a bird bath, we recommend that water is changed daily and that it’s cleaned out every week.

Personal hygiene, especially hand-washing, is important before and after feeding wild birds or following cleaning of areas where they are offered food.

You don’t need to stop feeding in summer, but it’s important to adjust how you feed.

Feed smaller amounts, keep everything fresh, and maintain good hygiene.

Seasonal changes simply mean being a bit more careful, not stopping altogether.

No - you don’t need to stop feeding birds.

Feeding birds isn’t the problem, how we feed them matters.

Feeding remains a positive and important way to support garden birds.

The key is making sure it’s done properly, with clean food, good hygiene, and thoughtful feeding habits.

Clean, high-quality food is an important part of feeding birds properly.

Dusty, damp, or poor-quality food can increase avoidable risks.

That’s why we focus on producing cleaner, carefully prepared diets to support safer feeding.