Households are being warned to look for the signs of a deadly disease spreading among songbirds in the UK.
Trichomonosis, also known as ‘canker’ or ‘frounce,’ is a disease caused by a parasite that affects a wide range of bird species, though it is most well-known for its impact on greenfinches.
This microscopic parasite infects tissues in the bird’s mouth, throat, and oesophagus, making it difficult for the bird to eat and breathe.
While greenfinches and chaffinches are particularly susceptible to this disease, other birds—including sparrows, pigeons, doves, yellowhammers, goldfinches, dunnocks, great tits, siskins, and bullfinches—have also been affected.
Evidence suggests the disease can spread through bird feeders, particularly flat ones.
It comes after the RSPB withdrew flat bird feeders from sale on its website due to growing concerns that they could be contributing to the spread of the illness.
Gardeners are now being advised to look out for signs of sick birds in their gardens, with symptoms including lethargy, puffed-up plumage, and difficulty maintaining…
