Bird feeder cleanliness now critical
An ornithologist from the University of Otago advises that backyard bird feeders remain safe to use during the bird flu outbreak if they are kept clean with soap and warm water. This guidance follows the detection of the H5N1 strain in New Zealand and the death of several wild birds.
Why it matters
Public health guidance is essential to prevent the spread of avian influenza while maintaining support for local wildlife populations.
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A tūī enjoys a spot of sugar water in a North East Valley backyard last month. PHOTO: GERARD O'BRIEN Backyard bird feeders are still safe, a Dunedin ornithologist says in the wake of the arrival of deadly bird flu on New Zealand’s shores.
As worries about bird flu continue to spread, people are questioning what will become of their beloved backyard bird feeders.
University of Otago zoology Prof Bruce Robertson said washing the feeders with warm water and soap ‘‘should keep everything peachy’’.
‘‘Just pay attention to cleanliness ... keep them clean — and that’s good practice anyway.
‘‘Viruses don’t like warm and hot water and definitely not soapy detergent.’’
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