Diseased Feeder Birds FAQs

We’ve been getting many reports of dead or diseased birds – especially Pine Siskins - that visit feeders and birdbaths. While we put these out to help birds, they can actually worsen the problem of disease outbreaks. State ornithologist Cliff Shackelford discusses the issue and how to properly clean and stop disease transmission around your feeders.

Some other FAQs:
Q: How do I know a bird is potentially ill?
A: Ill birds may act listless and lethargic and may not fly away when approached. Depending on the illness, you may also see growths, lesions, or tumors on the bird.

Q: What do we suspect is causing the recent outbreak?
A: Many sick and dead birds found this winter in other states appear to be due to salmonellosis, an infection caused by the salmonella bacteria which can be passed between birds as they congregate around feeders and birdbaths and come into contact with infected surfaces and food. Other common diseases include House Finch eye disease and avian pox.

Q: What should I do if I find a dead bird near my feeders?
A: If you suspect the bird was killed by disease, take photos to document it, and share your observations with this project. Texas Parks and Wildlife is not collecting specimens for analysis. To safely dispose of the carcass, wear gloves and double-bag the dead bird before disposing of it in the garbage.

Q: I think the bird I found in mid-February died due to cold exposure - where can I document that?
A: Please share that observation with our Winter Storm Uri Wildlife Deaths iNaturalist project.

Posted on March 15, 2021 06:25 PM by taniahomayoun