RSPB halts sales of flat bird feeders over finch disease concerns

The RSPB has stopped selling flat bird feeders due to concerns they may spread finch trichomonosis, a disease linked to declining finch populations, particularly greenfinches. The charity cited evidence that feeding birds on flat surfaces could increase disease transmission. The decision comes as the greenfinch population has dropped by 63% since 1993, prompting the RSPB to take precautionary measures. They have suspended sales of bird tables and related products while awaiting further research on the issue. Experts acknowledge the mixed effects of bird feeding and emphasize the importance of hygiene. They recommend cleaning feeders regularly and suggest avoiding flat surfaces for feeding birds until more research is available.