Knowledgebase

Information on Bird Disease and If Need to Remove Bird Feeders #764638

Asked July 29, 2021, 2:05 PM EDT

I heard and saw a couple reports of songbirds catching a mysterious disease that causes significant eye problems. It was reportedly moving up from the south. There was a recommendation that people remove their birdfeeders to reduce the spread of the disease. Here is one such report: https://www.audubon.org/news/scientists-still-searching-pathogen-behind-easts-songbird-epidemic I saw the extension service report from Ohio. I have not seen any local reports about this (Carroll County, MD). Do you have any information about it? I would assume if it is preventative to remove bird feeders, it would also be preventative to remove birdbath and suet feeder? Are hummingbirds being infected? If not, presumably one can maintain availability of hummingbird feeder? If removal of feeders is recommended, at what point is it expected that one can resume use of birdfeeders, etc.? Thank you for your assistance!

Carroll County Maryland

Expert Response

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources made an announcement two days ago (via their social media):  "We ask that everyone refrain from all feeding activities for all species of birds. Any activity that results in the congregation of birds or shared use should be ceased. There is plenty of wild food this time of year. MD residents can call<personal data hidden> to report sick/dead birds."

We do not have information on whether hummingbirds are among the species affected.

Here you can read about the locations where bird deaths have been reported, pathogens that have not been detected in tested birds, and recommended actions you can take on your property as a precaution.

https://news.maryland.gov/dnr/2021/07/02/bird-illness-investigation-continues-in-several-states/

We expect the MD Dept. of Natural Resources to issue an update when the issue is resolved and the use of feeders can be resumed.

Christa

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