Wildlife Welfare

Wild Bird Supplementary Feeding and Welfare

Garden bird feeding is one of the most widespread wildlife-human interactions, with both positive welfare effects and potential risks.

Key Facts

Around half of UK households feed garden birds regularly
Supplementary feeding can support birds through winter food shortages
Poor hygiene at feeders spreads diseases like trichomonosis and salmonella
Species composition at feeders has shifted, benefiting some species but not others
Clean feeders and appropriate food choice maximise welfare benefits

Welfare Considerations

Garden bird feeding provides genuine welfare benefits when done well, but dirty feeders and inappropriate food can cause disease and harm. Regular cleaning and appropriate species-specific foods maximise the benefit.

What You Can Do

Clean bird feeders weekly with hot soapy water to prevent disease spread
Use appropriate foods for target species and avoid bread as a dietary staple
Position feeders to protect birds from cat predation and window strikes