Want to help garden birds? Don’t feed them in warmer months, says RSPB
Want to help garden birds? Don’t feed them in warmer months, says RSPB
The UK’s largest bird charity warns that routine feeding in gardens might unintentionally harm certain species, urging a seasonal pause between 1 May and 31 October. While millions of people enjoy attracting birds with food, the RSPB emphasizes that this practice could accelerate the spread of illness. Trichomonosis, a parasitic infection, has been linked to sharp drops in greenfinch and chaffinch numbers, prompting concerns about their survival.
Greenfinches, once common in UK gardens, have seen a two-million decline in population. Now classified as endangered, they face threats from the disease, which targets the mouth, throat, and digestive system. Infected birds release the parasite through saliva and waste, tainting food supplies. Transmission to young birds also occurs via direct contact when adults share regurgitated meals.
“It’s really nice to see them from the window – they look very chipper out there,” says Helen Rowe, a London resident who feeds sparrows. While she enjoys the visits, she agrees to pause feeding during warmer months: “I want to support the birds – I don’t want to do anything that’s going to spread disease.”
The RSPB’s latest Big Garden Birdwatch data shows greenfinches fell from the top seven species in 1979 to 18th in 2025. Over 16 million households regularly provide bird food, with estimates suggesting one feeder per nine birds in use. The charity hopes this guidance will curb disease spread, though it admits shifting habits may take time.
Researchers highlight that flat surfaces, like traditional bird tables, accumulate contaminants more easily. As a result, the RSPB has stopped selling such feeders, encouraging a move to designs that reduce disease risk. Clean weekly routines and relocating feeders are recommended to prevent debris buildup. Water should be replenished daily, with tap water preferred over standing sources.
Some question if the advice should apply uniformly, noting regional differences in natural food availability. Dick Woods, a manufacturer of easy-to-clean feeders, argues: “Every garden is different. In some places, food is so abundant that birds don’t use feeders very much; in other areas there is little alternative.”
Despite the push for change, the pet food industry disputes the shift, calling it “a significant change to long-established advice.” They warn the new guidance might confuse millions who rely on feeding as a way to connect with wildlife. The RSPB insists simplicity is key, acknowledging that behavior change will take years, if not decades, to fully implement.
