We’ve recently seen a troubling increase in the number of dead greenfinches around the village. Andrew Pastor has already reached out to the RSPB, and we’ve received important information on how to protect these beautiful birds. If you're concerned and would like to know more about what’s happening with our local wildlife, including the greenfinches, please join us at the 'Drimpton Making a Difference' Coffee Morning on Saturday, 15th February, from 10:30 am - 12 noon at Drimpton Village Hall.
This is a chance to meet fellow wildlife lovers in the village and discuss how we can all help protect and care for the animals that make our community so special. Whether you’re curious about the greenfinches, interested in supporting other wildlife, or just looking to connect with like-minded neighbours, we’d love to see you there!
Come for the coffee, stay for the conversation – and let’s work together to make a difference for our local wildlife!
From the RSPB response:
"Good morning Andrew,
Thank you for getting in touch with the RSPB.
I am sorry to hear the village has noticed several sick and dead finches recently. It is likely a disease called Trichomoniasis that causing this, although we cannot be certain. When someone noticed sick or dead birds in the garden. It is advised to stop feeding for 2-4 weeks and thoroughly clean your feeders. Advice can be found on the RSPB but also Garden Wildlife Health https://www.gardenwildlifehealth.org/portfolio/trichomonosis-in-garden-birds/
It’s wonderful to hear your of village organisation that aims to help our lovely wildlife. I have attached some leaflets for you which you are share with others. Greenfinches like fruit tree seeds, Rosehip seeds. They like hawthorn and yew seeds in autumn and bramble seeds in winter.
Goldfinches eat seeds from dandelions, thistles and teasels, occasionally they will eat insects.
Chaffinches mainly eat invertebrates, and often seen on the ground below feeders eating the fallen seed. They are known to eat berries in winter too.
Planting small trees or shrubs in garden that produce flowers, fruit or seeds can provide natural food sources for finches and other birds too. Often planting wildflower seeds encouraging lots of insects which in turn attract birds also. The Wild Weekender PDF has a variety of suggestions and guides. This RSPB page list various seed mixes used for wildlife friendly gardening. This community blog provides 10 top tips for attracting birds into your garden.
The RSPB information files are below
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