Bird feeder, bath advisory lifted as reports of bird fatalities decrease

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) – The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management announced Thursday that it has lifted a precautionary notice to take down bird feeders and bird baths.

Rhode Islanders were asked to bring those items inside in July when a mysterious illness began infecting songbirds in New England. While a definitive disease has not been identified, the number of reported bird deaths have decreased to the point where the DEM can lift the recommendation.

“DEM’s Division of Fish and Wildlife thanks the public for their concern and taking the precautions necessary to protect our native birds,” said DEM biologist John Herbert. “As Rhode Islanders begin to put their bird feeders and baths back in place, now is the perfect opportunity to start a regular cleaning routine to lessen the chance of diseases spreading in places where birds congregate. Small actions can add up in a big way to keep birds safe.”

The DEM reminds Rhode Islanders to regularly clean bird feeders and bird baths once every 10 days with a 10 percent bleach solution.

If you notice any sick or dead birds with crusty eyes or neurological impairment, DEM asks that you take a photo, noting the time, date and location of the bird and submit it here.