The 3 Signs You Might Have an Infected Bird Feeder, and Steps to Take

Cooked rice in bird feeder — (Image credit: Arterra Picture Library via Alamy)

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1. Moldy or wet seeds
2. Fewer garden birds
3. Odors and pests
FAQs

Many different types of feeders can help attract and support local birds, from suet balls hanging in trees to plastic tubes filled with sunflower seeds. But bird feeders can also become hotspots for disease if not properly maintained. With avian influenza continuing to circulate in wild and domestic birds across the United States, spotting the warning signs of an infected feeder is more important than ever.

Sick or dead birds near feeders, abnormal behaviour like fluffed feathers or weakness, and unusual die-offs are all signals that action may be needed. By taking a few simple precautions – regular cleaning, careful disposal of waste, and temporary feeder breaks if necessary – you can help keep your backyard wildlife safe.

1. You Notice Moldy or Wet Seeds

‘Bird feeders can become a hotspot for disease if they’re not kept clean, and there are a few clear signs that something might be wrong,’ says Reese Robbins, garden expert and creator of Just Pure Gardening.

‘The most obvious sign is wet, clumped, or moldy seed inside your feeder,’ she explains. ‘Moldy seed can make birds very sick, so it’s important to take action quickly.’

Wet or damp feed often occurs after rain or during humid periods, and choosing a feeder with drainage holes can help keep seeds dry. ‘Also, always store seed in a cool, dry place. If your birdseed has become wet or moldy in storage, don’t add it to the feeder – discard it and start fresh.’

You can find lots of birdseed available online, such as this nut and berry birdseed mix, from Walmart.

Mold is perhaps the clearest warning that something is wrong, especially during winter months when damp conditions are common. ‘It’s a good idea to wash bird feeders every two weeks,’ Reese advises.

‘Empty the contents and give them a thorough soak. People use different cleaning methods – vinegar solutions or diluted bleach are popular – but whatever you choose, make sure the feeder is fully rinsed and completely dry before refilling.’

She adds that small, frequent refills are better than topping up a feeder all at once. ‘A little and often helps reduce the spread of infection from stale or moldy seeds, keeping your backyard birds healthier.’

As Reese says, there are many different methods for cleaning a feeder, but one fool-proof option is to opt for an eco-friendly product tailored to the job, such as this bird feeder cleaner, available from Amazon.

iBorn Bird Feeder

Ceramic Tray Bird Feeder

Metal Roof Bird Feeder

2. Fewer Garden Birds Are Visiting Your Yard

Some gardens are always full of birds, and they often have the same things in common. ‘If birds seem to be avoiding your feeder, it could mean that they sense the feeder isn’t safe,’ Reese says.

‘Any sudden drop in bird visits can be a warning sign that something isn't right.’

Seasonal changes – such as early winter freezes or spring migrations – can also influence bird activity, but unusual absences, especially when paired with other warning signs, are worth noting.

‘Similarly, if you notice unwell or deceased birds in your yard, this is a major red flag,’ Reese adds. ‘If any birds appear slow, seem to limp, or fail to fly, remove your feeders and clean them thoroughly.’

With highly pathogenic avian influenza still circulating in many areas of the US, these steps are especially important to reduce potential disease spread among backyard wildlife.

‘In this instance, keep an eye on your yard for any other signs of illness, and consider contacting a regional wildlife organization who may be able to advise if there is a localized outbreak,’ Reese continues.

Reese L. Robbins

Reese L. Robbins is the founder of Just Pure Gardening, a site full of fruit and vegetable growing guides, garden ideas, and garden product reviews.

3. Odors and Pests are Present

‘Finally, a strong, unpleasant odor coming from the feeder is a bad sign, especially if you’re using a hummingbird feeder, as this could indicate the nectar is contaminated,’ Reese adds. ‘Regular cleaning will eliminate bad smells and any build-up of bacteria, keeping the birds healthy.’

‘In addition, monitor your feeder for pests,’ Reese says. ‘Any sign of ants, flies, mice or rats is a cause for concern. These pests can spread disease or spoil the food for your birds.’

Seasonal changes, particularly the damp, cooler months, can encourage pest activity and faster spoilage, so extra vigilance in late winter and early spring is key.

When deciding where to hang your bird feeder, Reese recommends keeping them away from compost heaps or bins, which can attract pests. ‘To reduce the risk, make sure the feeder is out of reach, especially from hungry squirrels or curious cats.

'Placing the feeder in a well-ventilated, sunny spot will also minimize infection risks. I would also recommend keeping the area underneath free from debris and trash.’

FAQs

Can bird feeders contribute to the spread of bird flu in North America?

Wild birds can pass on the avian flu virus through droppings or secretions, which can contaminate bird feeders and water sources.

Currently, the transmission to songbirds has been low, and removing bird feeders is only recommended if you also keep poultry.

Whatever your circumstances, it is best to regularly clean feeding stations and water dishes to reduce the risk of the virus spreading. For updates, consult the US Department of Agriculture website.

When you are monitoring your bird feeder, it is also a good idea to keep an eye on bird baths. Our guide on how to clean a bird bath has all the information you need to know.

You might want to move away from the idea of a bird feeder altogether, and if you you'll want to know how to feed birds without a feeder in your yard; luckily there are a few brilliant ones!

Rachel is a gardening editor, floral designer, flower grower and gardener. Her journalism career began on Country Living magazine, sparking a love of container gardening and wild planting. After several years as editor of floral art magazine The Flower Arranger, Rachel became a floral designer and stylist, before joining Homes & Gardens in 2023. She writes and presents the brand's weekly gardening and floristry social series Petals & Roots. An expert in cut flowers, she is particularly interested in sustainable gardening methods and growing flowers and herbs for wellbeing. Last summer, she was invited to Singapore to learn about the nation state's ambitious plan to create a city in nature, discovering a world of tropical planting and visionary urban horticulture.