The RSPB says the new guidance was developed with scientists from the British Trust for Ornithology and the Institute of Zoology, and is based on what it describes as a “thorough and robust” review of the evidence. It says the full report will be published online.
While acknowledging the challenge the change presents for the bird food industry, the charity says “we cannot continue as usual”.
The risks linked to bird feeding have been known for more than 15 years, leading some critics to question why the charity did not revise its advice sooner. Others have pointed to the fact that the RSPB also sells bird feeders and bird food – including products branded with its logo – through its shops and online store.
The RSPB says it has carefully weighed the growing scientific evidence on disease transmission against the benefits that feeding birds can bring, both to some bird populations and to the people who enjoy it. Feeding garden birds, it says, can improve wellbeing and help people feel more connected to nature.
It acknowledges that changing its guidance has taken time but says gathering and analysing the evidence has been a lengthy process. The charity adds it will also stop selling bird feeders and bird food during the warmer months.
