Wildlife

Wild Greenfinch Trichomonosis Welfare

Trichomonosis disease caused by a parasite has caused significant greenfinch mortality, with welfare implications for garden bird populations.

Key Facts

Trichomonas gallinae causes greenfinch and chaffinch mortality through throat lesion formation
UK greenfinch populations declined by 65% largely due to trichomonosis since 2006
Infected birds show fluffed-up plumage, lethargic behaviour, and difficulty swallowing
Bird feeders concentrate birds, facilitating disease transmission through saliva contamination
Weekly feeder cleaning with 5% bleach solution significantly reduces disease spread

Welfare Considerations

Trichomonosis causes throat lesions that gradually prevent swallowing, leading to starvation. The welfare cost to affected individual birds is significant - prolonged difficulty eating before death. Regular feeder cleaning is a direct welfare intervention that reduces transmission and prevents individual bird suffering.

What You Can Do

Clean bird feeders weekly with 5% bleach solution, rinsing thoroughly before refilling
Remove and clean feeders if sick birds are observed near them
Report sick or dead greenfinches to the Garden Wildlife Health scheme