When my wife feeds the birds every week I wonder who is more blessed, the birds or us. I think we are getting the better end of feedings. When we look out our window and see the finches, bluebirds, woodpeckers and many more birds feasting it makes us realize we are the fortunate ones. 

Bird feeding is a fun and educational hobby for all ages. But with the fun comes the necessary chores that must be done to continue attracting birds. You must keep those bird feeders clean. When dozens of birds congregate in close quarters, you will need to keep the feed fresh to prevent diseases. Bird feed that is either damp or wet can sprout Aspergillus mold, which will release spores in the air infecting birds. As the birds congregate around your feeders they can spread the disease simply by excreting their droppings into the seed.

This can be easily avoided by scooping out wet or damp seed immediately. Dispose of the seed. Let the feeder dry out before you refill it. At least once a month scrub the feeder with a 10:1 solution of water and bleach and rinse well. If you don't want to mix your own cleaning solution you can pick up various brands at your local bird store. Please make sure once you have cleaned your feeder that you let it dry completely before you refill with fresh seed.