Wildlife

Wild Greenfinch Trichomonosis Welfare

Trichomonosis disease caused by Trichomonas gallinae has killed millions of greenfinches in the UK since 2005, with individual birds experiencing severe oral suffering before death.

Key Facts

Trichomonas gallinae causes a caseous lesion in the mouth and throat preventing swallowing
Affected greenfinches appear lethargic, puffed up and unable to feed at garden stations
UK greenfinch populations declined by 35% between 2005 and 2015 following disease emergence
Contaminated bird baths and feeders spread the parasite between individuals at feeding stations
Weekly cleaning with 5% disinfectant solution is the most effective prevention measure

Welfare Considerations

Trichomonosis causes severe suffering through oral lesions and starvation in affected greenfinches. Feeder hygiene is the single most impactful welfare action garden bird feeders can take.

What You Can Do

Clean all bird feeders and baths weekly with 5% disinfectant solution and rinse thoroughly
Remove ground feeding stations when trichomonosis is confirmed in your area
Report sick greenfinches to the Garden Wildlife Health project for disease monitoring