FEEDING wild birds has become a near universal pastime in backyards and on balconies around the world. But now comes evidence that this can spread disease among the very creatures it is supposed to benefit. Will bird tables go the way of another simple pleasure 鈥� throwing bread to ducks, which is increasingly frowned upon for causing a disease called angel wing? Next month a conference in London will weigh up the pros and cons 鈥� and thankfully it鈥檚 mostly good news for feeding garden birds (see 鈥淕arden bird feeders spread diseases鈥�). Millions of squirrels will be mightily relieved.
Garden bird feeders on trial
The infections spread by feeding wild birds needn't put an end to an innocent and well-meant pastime