On Monday, April 4, 2022, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) issued a press release that observes alerts the public that if they enjoy feeding birds it’s time to be extra vigilant about keeping bird feeders clean to keep birds from contracting common diseases found in feeders.
Clean bird feeders and waterers with a 10 percent bleach solution about once each month. Make sure the feeder is dry before refilling it with seed. Of equal importance to disinfecting the feeder is cleaning up spilled seed and bird droppings below feeders. Be sure to wear rubber gloves while cleaning the feeders, since humans can contract some diseases, from affected feeders or sick birds. If people do find sick birds at their feeders they should take down their feeders for at least two weeks to help stop the spread of disease and contact the DNR.
