Hygiene at the bird feeder is important. Since your bird feeder is a meeting place for various birds, the risk of contagious diseases spreading is very high. It is not uncommon for birds to carry diseases that are harmful to both humans, their pets, or poultry flocks. Examples of bacteria include campylobacter, e.coli, and salmonella. It is particularly the greenfinch and house sparrow that spread these bacteria with their droppings.

A bird feeder should therefore be properly designed so that the birds do not sit in the food, and it is very important that it is cleaned regularly. A couple of times each month, you should wash away droppings and remove food residues.

Lukewarm water mixed with a mild dishwashing detergent works fine, but to be on the safe side, you can add 10% disinfectant. Afterwards, rinse thoroughly with water. Be careful and wash your hands afterwards, or use protective gloves during cleaning.