Now that the hot weather is here, it’s important to remember to keep bird feeders clean. Dirty feeders and improper feeding areas can pose health threats that could spread from bird to bird. This is especially true if the weather turns humid and there are heavy rains. You can and should continue feeding birds the same food given at any other time of the year — just remember to follow a few safety practices.

There are five diseases commonly associated with poorly maintained feeding areas and though none are likely to result in widespread illness, birders definitely want to work toward prevention. Salmonellosis, trichomaniasis, aspergilosis, mycoplasmosis and avian pox are all diseases that birds can get at feeders.

You can keep your feeders safe simply by washing them twice a month. I recommend using a 10 percent solution of one part household bleach and nine parts warm water. The entire feeder ought to be submerged in the mix for three minutes and then allowed to air dry. Between cleanings, clear off the old wet seeds and droppings with a putty knife.

Tube feeders are especially good at spreading mycoplasmosis and avian pox. Both diseases are discharged at the mucous membrane near the eyes. There are a wide variety of brushes made specifically for cleaning tube feeders; however, any long-handled bottle brush will do the job. Use a garden hose to wash away the unwanted waste, but be sure the feeding area is dry before restocking. Wet seed will become moldy and birds can die from ingesting mold.

Many diseases are spread beneath the feeder, where spilled seed mixes with droppings or becomes moldy. Aspergilosis and salmanellosis thrive on the damp ground. Trichomaniasis often is spread among mourning doves at this point, too. Trichomaniasis gives birds sores that causes problems swallowing; they then drop seeds from their beaks and pass the infection along. The best way to clean up the mess is by raking thoroughly.

In a few weeks young juveniles will be accompanying their parents to the feeders. Most will be looking for sources of protein in the form of suet. Unfortunately, many birders do not put out suet cakes at this time of year, but it is safe to offer suet if done properly. I recommend breaking the cake in half to limit the time it is exposed to the heat. You should never place more out than can be consumed in one morning and always keep it in the shade. During a heat wave, switch to frozen suet dough.

Last summer I had so many juvenile downy woodpeckers at the suet there was hardly any room for other species. They made a great deal of noise while they fought for the easy protein source. I actually noticed their growth just over a few days and had to replenish the suet constantly.

It is a heart-wrenching sight to see birds suffer with illnesses. Those majestic jays, brilliant red cardinals and feisty chickadees do benefit from summer bird feeding. They depend on us to provide the seed in a sanitary way. It is neither fun nor easy to clean feeders, but I try to do my best. A part of the pleasure in feeding wild birds is knowing that you are helping them out. Only then, can we benefit from the inspiration.

Robert Tougias is a birding author who lives in Colchester. He is available for presentations and you can send questions to him at rtougias@snet.net.