bring high levels whilst blackbirds, chaffinches and greenfinches do not. Perhaps this is part of the reason that the number of sparrows has fallen from 15 million pairs in 1970 to only six million now.


And then I would gulp and consider also informing her that her precious dogs could actually be affected by Salmonella too.


Then I would see the look of pure delight on her face and decide to just keep mum.


Following best practice for feeding garden


birds is recommended to help control and prevent transmission of disease at feeding stations all year round


■ Routine good table hygiene. Clean away uneaten food and droppings before putting out fresh food and disinfect feeders/ feeding sites on a regular basis.


■ Provide clean and fresh drinking water on a daily basis


■ Provide fresh food from accredited sources ■ Rotate positions of feeders in the garden to avoid build up of contamination in any one area and pay particular attention to clearing food remains that fall onto the ground


If you see many dead birds in your garden, stop feeding for 2 months.


The RSPB have a lovely selection of bird tables and feeders to buy online at www.rspb.org.uk


Clyde Life Magazine


www.clydelife.co.uk | 15


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