Expert: Roger Lederer - 3/17/2011

Question
Hello, Mr. Lederer, I’m glad that you’re willing to undertake so many questions. I’ve been reading through some older ones and have learned some new information.

My husband and I recently started feeding the birds this winter.  My neighbor, a long time bird enthusiast, has informed me about some of the feeding "rules."  Apparently, I need to look out for evil birds such as European Starlings and House Sparrows, and I could wind spreading diseases or even killing birds if my feeders aren't clean as a (bird) whistle. There is some great information available about this issue, but I'm still unsure as to exactly what I need to do to keep the birds well fed and healthy.

We reside in East Tennessee where it is hot and humid.  How often should I clean my bird feeders and the surrounding area?  When it rains should I clean them more often?  In the summer, should I clean them more often?

I use ceramic plates, a few bricks, and some old wood to feed the ground foraging birds. Mourning Doves flock to these areas, but so do other birds such as Juncos and Finches.   Unfortunately, the bricks and wood are permanent fixtures (cemented into the ground,) which doesn't lend to easy cleaning.  Should I hose them off, and then apply bleach (while my hubby tries to keep the birds away from the area), should I use Lysol spray, or just stick with plain ole water when cleaning those feeders?  

Many of my ground feeders are directly on the ground.  Would it be healthier if I raised them up a little?  

How far apart should feeders be placed?  How often should they be moved around?

Just how does someone go about cleaning up the shells?  I've tried raking them up and I've tried picking them up by hand. Nothing seems to work.  Is there a special tool I should use?  Do I need to bleach the area below the feeder?

I appreciate any guidance you can provide.

I obviously need some guidance!

Answer
I think your neighbor is exaggerating the problem. Birds flock all the time and yes, diseases, are spread, but it's not a serious issue, usually. The major problem at feeders is conjunctivitis (pink eye) that House Finches are prone to. If you ever see House Finches with eye infections, then you need to clean everything thorougtly with bleach. But in general, you don't need to do anything except keep the feeders reasonably clean by scraping the old seed out. Honestly, I clean my feeders thoroughly once a year and just give them a quick cleaning every few weeks otherwise. Feeders are generally not a big problem in spreading disease. Thanks for your concern.