Pine Siskins

ON THE COVER: Salmonella Outbreak and Wild Songbirds

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and various bird rehabilitation organizations are recommending that people in southern California stop feeding birds until April or May when Pine Siskins have left the area. Even though there have not been many cases here (compared to Northern California), they are being cautious. In any case, feeders should always be cleaned regularly, along with the ground below the feeders. Salmonellosis is transmitted mainly through the accumulation of droppings around the feeders and birdbaths. CDFW recommends draining birdbaths as well, but an alternative would be to clean the baths out at least daily.