With avian flu still circulating in wild and backyard birds across the US in 2026, gardeners are being advised to rethink traditional bird feeding. Bird feeders and baths can attract large numbers of birds, increasing the risk of virus spread if hygiene slips or infected birds visit.
To slow transmission, some wildlife agencies, including the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, have recommended temporarily removing feeders and bird baths. While this may feel counterintuitive, reducing close interactions between birds can help protect your local wildlife.
