Bird feeder cameras are a great all-in-one solution for filming garden birds, but they could be contributing to an alarming decline in some avian visitors. Over a year ago, I asked the question: Is my bird feeder camera harming wildlife? At the time, the UK’s Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) had pulled all flat bird feeders (those with flat trays where seeds collect) from its website while it reviewed the potential dangers. Now, it’s published its findings and has suggested two simple changes to help safeguard gardens birds: seasonal feeding and safe feeding. Bird feeder cameras can contribute to both.
The route problem is a highly contagious disease called trichomonosis. A single infected bird can wreak havoc by visiting multiple feeding stations and spreading the parasite. Finches are particularly susceptible, with the RSPB stating that the UK’s greenfinch population has dropped by over 65% over the past three decades. The disease is easier to spread in summer and autumn, so the RSPB is suggesting that UK residents hold off feeding seeds and peanuts from May 1 to October 31, with small amounts of mealworms and suet as suitable alternatives all year round.
