THE PROBLEM FOR WILD BIRDS

The bird table has become a very important food source for British wild birds but like any popular restaurant it can be a place where individuals mix and exchange ‘bugs’. Unlike the restaurant they even share a plate and often share a bath!

Whilst feeding of gardenbirds is important to them we need to be cautious to avoid spreading disease through them at feeders. It is very important that they are able to breed and rear their young successfully.

Salmonella problems may be seen Jan-March and later protozoal problems have become a problem from June to September. The commonest species affected are greenfinches (Carduelis chloris), house sparrows (Passer domesticus) and chaffinches (Fringilla coelebs).

Trichomoniasis has become a major problem, Trichomonas doesn't produce cysts and is sensitive to drying, direct contamination is necessary and infection is through usually contaminated water or possibly food but only if its freshly contaminated and 'moist' - so this shouldn't be a big route for wild birds. Most wild bird infections are mainly via contaminated water bowls and possibly longer lasting 'puddles''. Sadly pigeons, including doves are likely to be a source but certainly not the only source, Trichomonas generally isn't very host specific.

Part of the answer to at least preventing spread is to provide clean fresh water to avoid them having to drink from a source that is contaminated.

Vetark have recently launched CitroSan which is an extract of oranges ie a natural product with biocidal properties - it has been used in turkeys and chicken for prevention of Trichomoniasis.

Good hygiene is vital and Vetark is already providing Ark-Klens to minimise disease transmission. Ark-Klens is safe for the birds and for the user, it is effective against major pathogens (now tested effective against flu virus), and is non-scented so that birds are not put off. In addition to being a very good cleanser it is a very effective disinfectant. Periodically, the use of a broad spectrum disinfectant such as Tamodine E is well worthwhile.

Another important aspect of disease control is maximising immunity. Vetarks newest products Sprinkle Support and CitroSan both aim to maximise the birds natural immune response at times when they are under stress such as breeding or overwintering.

Sprinkle Support is a palatable bird food supplement with friendly probiotic bacteria, prebiotic soluble fibre and vitamins to maximise bird health. As its name suggests it is sprinkled on the food.

The choice of foods

The choice of foods for wildbirds is very important, although garden birds will accept a wide range the most popular mixes include black sunflower and peanuts (which must be tested for aflatoxin by the suppliers). Wheat and oats will attract pigeons. The same basic mix is enjoyed also by red squirrels if you are lucky enough to have them in the area - although they also like treats of hazelnuts etc.

Squirrels especially benefit from feeding during the summer - after the spring shoots etc and before the winter nuts.

Feeding of birds in the summer is controversial, and hygiene is especially vital to ensure infections are not taken back to the nest.

Fat balls etc are popular and welcomed especially in the cooler months but be careful about home made versions and possible rancid fats which are unpalatable, and also potentially toxic.