RSPB: Save Finches, Switch Feed in Summer

0:00On April 10th, the RSPB is telling bird lovers to skip seeds and nuts and garden feeders from May 1st, October 31st. This helps stop diseases like trichomonosis from spreading among finches, especially green finches whose populations have crashed hard. Their latest guidance pushes, feeds safely and seasonally. Swap in small amounts of protein like mealworms or fad balls during summer. These don't draw big crowds and help parents feed chicks. Season peanuts can come back in winter. Numbers from this year's big garden bird watch paint a grim picture. Over 650,000 people took part and green finches landed 18th, down 67% since 1979. They're now on the endangered red list, with about 6 million green finches and chae finches lost to the parasite recently. The disease thrives in warm weather, passing through saliva and crowded feeders on flat surfaces. Studies show our feeding supports millions of birds, but can mess with local nutrients and biodiversity if not managed right.

1:01Meanwhile, clean feeders weekly, refresh water daily, implant sunflowers or ivy for natural snacks. House sparrows still top the charts, followed by blue tits and reviving starlings. These tweaks keep our feather friends thriving without the risks.