It’s a good time to feed the birds in Nova Scotia
With the cold temperatures and scarcity of food, feathered visitors can bene t a great deal from bird feeders.
Last year, people were advised not to put bird feeders out during the warmer months because of the risk of spreading of trichomonosis, which is caused by a microscopic parasite. Once prolonged cold temperatures arrive the danger period is over.
“Birds can use help this time of year,” said Ross Hall, a retired wildlife biologist who lives in Bible Hill. “One of the staples is black oil sunflower seeds, which are enjoyed by most birds.
“Some birds, like mourning doves and pigeons, like cracked corn. We feed a mixture of seeds, and quite a few birds show up.”
He finds blue jays are very fond of broken peanuts, and cardinals are drawn to safflower seeds. His wife, Linda, makes a suet mixture for the birds during the winter.
Trichomonosis is picked up through saliva and feces of infected birds. It is often found in wet seeds, bird baths, and puddles. Risk of transmission increases at feeders because birds come together in unnaturally close quarters.
e disease showed up in many birds during the summer of 2017, but there were fewer cases in 2018. It does not spread to humans or pets such as cats and dogs.
“As things warm up in April, people should be careful to keep areas where birds are coming, especially clean,” said Hall. “Even in winter, it’s a good idea to clean things o .”