Finch flu

[tricia]

Has anyone else noticed finches that are obviously sick?

I've seen several chaffinches, greenfinches and goldfinches all hunched up trying to feed but not able to swallow and their beaks not closing. They often sit on the feeder perches without moving for ages too and on the ground they don't fly off until I get really close to them. Poor things. My daughter-in-law says it is finch flu. I've seen birds which were obviously not well before, but not so many as lately.

The sick birds have all been juveniles.

Tricia

[tricia]

[Flighty]

It's sad to see this happening! They're suffering from trichomonosis as you can see on this RSPB web page -

http://www.rspb.org.uk/advice/helpingbirds/health/sickbirds/greenfinches.aspx

[tricia]

Thanks for the link Flighty. I've downloaded their form and will fill it out and email it to them this weekend. I keep the birdfeeders clean and change the water in the birdbath every day. They suggest not feeding the birds - but all my neighbours feed them too, so it probably wouldn't make any difference if I stopped. I haven't found any dead birds in the garden - only seen those that are obviously sick.

Tricia

[theothermarg]

I'v seen a Goldfinch sat on the feeder for ages but not feeding! I tried to get nearer to see it better but it saw me and flew away. I know why now.
marg