The Idaho Department of Fish and Game has issued an alert about a bird disease that can be passed along at bird feeders. While it is a bigger problem in the Panhandle right now, it’s always a good idea to keep feeders clean. Below is a house finch at a feeder in my yard. The top and bottom of this feeder can be removed, along with the covers on the pegs, for easy cleaning with a mild bleach solution. Removing feeders for a while also helps.

The Panhandle Region has received reports of sick or dead wild birds over the last several weeks. The current die-offs are thought to be from Salmonellosis. Salmonellosis is caused by the salmonella bacteria and is a common and generally fatal bird disease. Biologists recommend the public temporarily discontinue feeding wild birds for a few weeks, thoroughly clean bird feeders and rake up spilled or soiled seed on the ground. 

Bird feeders should be cleaned regularly with warm soapy water, however more rigorous cleaning is needed during die-off events from salmonellosis. Feeders should be cleaned with a 1:10 ratio of household bleach and water. After soaking in the bleach solution, feeders should be rinsed and dried before filling with seed. If folks continue to feed wild birds, bird feeders and baths should be cleaned daily.

From Idaho Fish and Game

The public can stop the spread of Salmonellosis by temporarily halting the feeding of wild birds, which will encourage birds to disperse and forage naturally.

Although uncommon, salmonella bacteria can be transmitted to humans through direct contact of sick birds or droppings. The public should take precautions when handling birds, bird feeders or bird baths by wearing gloves and thoroughly washing hands. Additionally, pet owners are recommended to keep cats inside to ensure they do not catch or consume sick birds.

~Debbie