RSPB Advises Against Summer Feeding of Seeds and Nuts to Reduce Avian Disease
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) has recommended that garden bird enthusiasts avoid feeding seeds and nuts during the summer months to help curb the spread of avian diseases. This guidance aims to protect species such as the greenfinch, whose populations have sharply declined due to trichomonosis, a parasitic disease that spreads more readily when birds congregate around feeders in warmer weather.
Bird watchers are encouraged to remove their seed and nut feeders from May through October. Instead, the RSPB suggests offering small amounts of protein-rich foods like mealworms, fat balls, or suet, which are less likely to attract large groups of finches and provide essential nutrients for birds feeding their chicks.
Decline of Greenfinch and Impact of Trichomonosis
The advice follows findings from the 2026 Big Garden Birdwatch, the world’s largest garden bird survey with 650,000 participants. The greenfinch ranked 18th overall and is currently listed on the red list of endangered British birds. Since the survey began in 1979, greenfinch numbers have dropped by 67% on average. It is estimated that thousands have died due to trichomonosis in recent years.
“Feeding birds is something millions of us love and value, but the science shows us that birds such as greenfinches have been affected by the spread of disease at feeders,” said Beccy Speight, chief executive of the RSPB. “We’re not asking people to stop feeding, just to feed in a way that protects birds’ long-term health. By making small changes together, we can ensure garden feeding continues to be a positive force for nature.”
Feeding Practices and Environmental Impact
One study estimates that the volume of food provided by the British public could support nearly half the total number of wild birds in the countryside. Another study found that excess nutrients from feeding can alter the environment, potentially favoring some plants over others and reducing biodiversity.
Trichomonosis is a parasite primarily threatening finch species and is transmitted through fluids such as saliva at feeders. The parasite survives longer in warmer months, increasing the risk of disease transmission.
RSPB Recommendations for Safe Feeding
The RSPB advises that while seed feeders can be used during winter, all bird tables and flat-surfaced feeders should be retired during warmer months. Research indicates that flat surfaces pose a higher risk for disease spread due to accumulation of contaminated food. The charity also recommends cleaning and relocating feeders weekly and changing bird water daily to maintain hygiene.
“The new advice is simple: feed safely and feed seasonally,” said an RSPB spokesperson. “During the warmer months from 1 May to 31 October, when disease can sp easily, we are recommending people pause filling bird feeders with seed and peanuts to avoid large numbers of birds gathering in one place. Small amounts of mealworms or fat balls can still be offered safely throughout the year.”
Encouraging Natural Food Sources and Garden Planting
The RSPB also promotes bird-friendly garden planting. Plants such as sunflowers, teasels, and ivy provide natural seasonal food sources and attract insects, which are vital for many garden birds, especially when feeding chicks.
Big Garden Birdwatch 2026: Top 10 Most Seen Birds
In the 2026 Big Garden Birdwatch, the house sparrow retained the top spot, followed by the blue tit in second place. The starling showed signs of recovery, moving up to third place. The wood pigeon and blackbird rounded out the top five.
| Species | Average per Garden | % of Gardens Seen | Population Trend Since 1979 |
|---|---|---|---|
| House sparrow | 3.57 | 57.1% | Population fall of 64.3% |
| Blue tit | 3.12 | 78.5% | Population rise of 28% |
| Starling | 2.23 | 31.4% | Population fall of 85.1% |
| Wood pigeon | 2.21 | 75.2% | Population rise of 1,003% |
| Blackbird | 1.68 | 71.7% | Population fall of 58.1% |
| Great tit | 1.58 | 56.1% | Population rise of 75.2% |
| Robin | 1.50 | 83.1% | Population fall of 25.2% |
| Goldfinch | 1.38 | 27% | No long-term trend data |
| Magpie | 1.32 | 58% | Population rise of 228.8% |
| Long-tailed tit | 1.19 | 26.2% | No long-term trend data |
