can you feed birds in michigan

As a precautionary measure, taking down bird feeders can help limit the spread of avian flu. At this time, highly pathogenic avian influenza has been detected in wild birds and domestic flocks in several counties throughout Michigan.

Although songbirds are less vulnerable than other species to avian flu, there is still the possibility of avian flu spreading at your feeding station if it is near domestic poultry flocks or if waterfowl, raptors, or other wild birds visit.

The Michigan DNR has not banned bird feeding at this time, but they shared that temporary removal of these food sources could be helpful, especially for anyone who has highly susceptible species domestic poultry, raptors or waterfowl living nearby. Similarly, removal could be a wise choice for those who observe high-risk species like blue jays, crows or ravens hanging around backyard bird feeders. This temporary removal of bird feeders and baths may only last for the next couple months, or until the rate of HPAI spread in wild and domestic birds decreases.

Even when outbreaks are not prevalent, bird feeders can spread avian diseases/illnesses such as avian pox, conjunctivitis, and salmonella. This is an important reminder that keeping your bird feeders and birdbaths clean is essential for their maintenance. To clean feeders and birdbaths, you can start by scrubbing them with water and soap, then apply a solution of 9 parts water with 1 part bleach. After thoroughly rinsing, let the feeder dry entirely and refill with fresh food. You can learn more about cleaning your feeders in this video from Wild Birds Unlimited.

If you observe unusual or unexplained deaths among wild bird populations, you can report information using the Eyes in the Field diseased wildlife form or by calling the DNR Wildlife Disease Laboratory at 517-336-5030.

North American Birds Face Their Own Pandemic With Latest Bout of Avian Flu National Audubon Society | April 21, 2022

Temporary removal of bird feeders can slow spread of HPAI Michigan Department of Natural Resources press release | April 20, 2022

DNR: Removing Feeders Not Urgent but Could Reduce Bird Flu US News & World Report | April 20, 2022

Avian Influenza Outbreak: Should You Take Down Your Bird Feeders? The Cornell Lab of Ornithology | April 20, 2022

2022 Detections of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Wild Birds USDA | Ongoing updates

Avian influenza confirmed in wild birds in these Michigan counties Detroit News | March 24, 2022

Your greatest chance is that the birds you feed won’t be overly untidy and that the bird feeder won’t leak seeds. Additionally, dangle the feeder so that deer and elk cannot reach it. The elk and deer dislike a few other things in addition to these. human hair as well as fragrances such as soap, lavender, garlic, or chives

Many of us take out our bird feeders from our garage and put them back up as winter draws near. We put seeds inside to help our feathered friends have a food source during the winter, but if you do that, you may be breaking the law.

So here is the bottom line. While it’s not against the law to feed birds in Michigan, it is against the law to use bird feed that draws deer or elk. The first two times you are caught drawing deer or elk to your bird feeder, you will be fined $500 for misdemeanor. After that it becomes a felony charge.

The bill was sponsored by State Representative Ken Borton. In a recent interview with WWJ radio, he said: “If you feed the birds or squirrels… and any of that seed does happen to wind up on the ground, which it obviously does when birds eat, and a deer comes, at that point, youre committing a crime.”

Governor Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan vetoed a bill last week that would have loosened the prohibitions on feeding birds in areas where elk and deer also roam.

2022 Detections of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Wild Birds USDA | Ongoing updates

Though they noted that “temporary removal of these food sources could be helpful, especially for anyone who has highly susceptible species domestic poultry, raptors, or waterfowl living nearby,” the Michigan Department of Natural Resources has not yet outlawed bird feeding. Likewise, individuals who see high-risk species such as ravens, crows, or blue jays congregating near backyard bird feeders may find it prudent to remove them. This temporary removal of bird baths and feeders might only extend for a few months, or until domestic and wild birds experience a decline in the rate of HPAI spread. .

Removing bird feeders can help prevent the spread of avian flu as a preventative measure. Thus far, highly pathogenic avian influenza has been found in domestic flocks and wild birds in a number of Michigan counties.

North American Birds Face Their Own Pandemic With Latest Bout of Avian Flu National Audubon Society | April 21, 2022

FAQ

Is it OK to put out bird feeders now?

However, feeding and providing water to wild birds is generally discouraged because the increased congregation of wild birds at bird feeders and bird baths may lead to fecal contamination of the local environment, which can aid in disease transmission.

Is it okay to feed backyard birds?

It’s not necessary. Bird feeding is most helpful when birds need the most energy, such as during temperature extremes, migration and in late winter or early spring, when natural seed sources are depleted. Most birds don’t need your help in the summer.

Is it illegal to feed crows in Michigan?

It’s important to note; while feeding birds is not illegal in Michigan, using a bird feed that attracts deer or elk is against the law. Under current DNR rules, using that kind of bird feeder is a $500 misdemeanor.

Is it illegal to feed squirrels in Michigan?

Sec. 6-21. Feeding of wild animals and birds prohibited except the feeding of birds and squirrels by means of an elevated feeder.