To feed wild birds or not

DAYTON - During the 2024 fall migration season, the National Audubon Society was concerned that the avian flu's virulent H5N1, or HPAI strain, could spread to and by wild songbirds at backyard feeding stations. During last year's migration, wild and domestic birds' infection and death rates soared. The virus spreads along bird migration routes, or flyways, to the detriment of many birds, mainly waterfowl, during the fall migration.

There is good news for songbirds, though. According to an Audubon Society publication dated February 24, 2025, songbirds aren't as likely as other bird species to encounter the virus. With a few precautions, wild bird enthusiasts can continue to feed them.

Mark Vesay, Assistant Wildlife Biologist for the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife in District 3, has the following advice, "As long as birds at feeders appear healthy, a homeowner can feed as normal, but if a homeowner sees any sick birds, they should stop feeding, empty and disinfect feeders, bird baths, and waterers, and scrape up as much dropped seed as possible from the ground around feeders."

He went on to say that people with backyard poultry or waterfowl shouldn't attract wild birds to a feeding station or feed domestic chickens or ducks where wild birds can access their food.

Outbreaks of bird flu have already impacted dairy and poultry farms, raising concerns about a crossover-to-human pandemic.

"We did recently submit a raccoon from the Burbank area that tested positive," he added.

A WDFW website lists the raccoon and other infected birds and mammals, including a bobcat, two cougars, and a harbor seal.

Here is the Audubon Society's recommendation on how to clean your feeding station:

Dispose of any uneaten seed, rather than dumping it on the ground. Leftovers can attract other animals.

Scrub with soap and water (for hummingbird feeders, skip the soap), followed by a 15-minute soak in a solution of half vinegar and half water to sanitize.

Thoroughly rinse. (If your feeder is dishwasher safe, let your appliance's soap and hot water do the work.)

No matter how you clean the feeder, let it dry completely before refilling it with food. Moisture is a sure way for fungus or bacteria to flourish.

Sick birds can behave strangely, with heads tilting back and appearing disoriented. If you see sick birds, keep your distance. If you absolutely need to handle a dead bird, wear protective gear. Report sick and dead birds to WDFW online at bit.ly/sickwildbirds or by phone at (800) 606-3056.