The RSPB has recently advised people to temporarily remove many garden bird feeders to help slow the spread of Trichomonosis, a disease affecting some of our most familiar garden birds.

But what exactly is Trichomonosis? How does it spread, which species are most at risk, and why are bird feeders part of the problem?

In this episode, we explore the science behind the disease, its impact on bird populations, and the practical steps we can all take to help protect the birds visiting our gardens.

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Don't forget to follow The Birdy Bug Pod over on Instagram. And please do feel free to contact us with any questions, feedback, comments, or just to say hi!

Follow us @thebirdybugpod

Links

Trichomonosis | BTO

Finch trichomonosis transmission in gardens

The emergence and spread of finch trichomonosis in the British Isles - PMC

Protozoan | Definition, Parasites, Diseases, Characteristics, Size, Kingdom, & Facts | Britannica

We see it everywhere. Climbing trees, clinging to walls, and carpeting woodland floors. Ivy is one of the most familiar plants in our landscapes, but is it really the garden nuisance it is often made out to be, or is it in fact an unsung biodiversity haven?

Join us we take a closer look at ivy’s hidden world. From the surprising range of wildlife it supports to its deep-rooted cultural history, we explore why this resilient plant might deserve a little more respect.

And there is even a link between ivy and our recent hiatus from recording. It's brilliant to be back after a bit of a break, we hope you enjoy listening!

Get in touch

Don't forget to follow The Birdy Bug Pod over on Instagram. And please do feel free to contact us with any questions, feedback, comments, or just to say hi!

Follow us @thebirdybugpod

Links

https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/43091/hedera-helix/details

https://resjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/icad.12033

https://butterfly-conservation.org/news-and-blog/ivy-lifeline-for-autumn-moths

https://www.bumblebeeconservation.org/learn-about-bumblebees/solitarybees/ivy-bee/

Small in size, big in personality, you can't help but love the Little Owl.

While not native to the UK, this charismatic species has firmly established itself since its introduction, carving out a niche in our countryside and charming anyone lucky enough to spot one perched on a post.

Sadly, however, Little Owl populations are seeing worrying declines, and the exact causes are not fully understood.

So, grab a drink and join us as we explore the captivating world of the little owl: from its symbolic connection to ancient Greek mythology, to its journey to Britain, the challenges it faces today, and the fantastic conservation efforts working to help protect them.

Get in touch

Don't forget to follow The Birdy Bug Pod over on Instagram. And please do feel free to contact us with any questions, feedback, comments, or just to say hi!

Follow us @thebirdybugpod

Links

Little Owl | BTO

Little Owl Facts | Athene Noctua

UK Little Owl Project

Little owl | The Wildlife Trusts

Little Owl (Athene noctua) - British Birds - Woodland Trust

Little Owl Monitoring Network — Leigh Ecology

Little Owl facts - The Barn Owl Trust