Bird tables: Why we're no longer selling them

At the RSPB, the safety and welfare of birds is our top priority.

To help reduce the spread of disease, we have stopped selling all our bird tables and related products, including Table mix and Table mix extra, window feeders and feeder guardians with trays. This is because there is evidence to suggest that some birds, particularly finches, can be more exposed to disease when fed on flat surfaces like these.

Feeding garden birds safely

We know so many of you love feeding your garden birds and some bird species really do benefit from us putting out extra food for them, especially in winter. However, there is increasing evidence that for other birds there can also be negative effects such as the spread of disease, especially among finches.

You can still support garden birds by using feeders that reduce contact with droppings, such as hanging feeders, and by maintaining good hygiene (regular cleaning, fresh food daily, and spacing feeders apart). If you have any queries, please contact us at wildlife@rspb.org.uk

Alternatives to bird tables

Please see below for a selection of alternative products that you can use.