bird flu - Ask Extension
is it safe to feed wild birds in Montgomery co MD. with the recent emergence of the bird flu.
Knowledgebase
bird flu #891786
Asked January 21, 2025, 3:30 PM EST
is it safe to feed wild birds in Montgomery co MD. with the recent emergence of the bird flu.
Montgomery County Maryland
Expert Response
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources recently shared a notice about bird flu and backyard bird feeding, saying that the risk of avian influenza in songbirds is low (compared to poultry, waterfowl, and raptors), so putting out bird feeders should be fine. (Even so, clean them regularly to avoid the transmission of more common songbird illnesses, like conjunctivitis.)
If you want to double-check with the DNR about this or other wild bird health concerns, you can inquire with their wildlife biologists. An email can be sent to <personal data hidden> (especially if you want to share photos) or, if you would like to speak to someone, they have a Wildlife and Heritage Service phone number at<personal data hidden> (there are different hotline numbers in the page linked above for reporting dead birds). The DNR phone line is staffed during regular business hours, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, except state holidays and weekends.
Miri
If you want to double-check with the DNR about this or other wild bird health concerns, you can inquire with their wildlife biologists. An email can be sent to <personal data hidden> (especially if you want to share photos) or, if you would like to speak to someone, they have a Wildlife and Heritage Service phone number at<personal data hidden> (there are different hotline numbers in the page linked above for reporting dead birds). The DNR phone line is staffed during regular business hours, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, except state holidays and weekends.
Miri
