Letter: Please clean those feeders

On July 4, I watched a beautiful male Cassin’s finch struggle and suffer while dying from an eye disease. This sad tragedy occurs when bird feeders are unclean. An infected bird will transfer the disease to every feeder it visits, thereby potentially infecting every other bird that visits those same feeders. We can help! It is vital that we carefully wash, thoroughly rinse and completely dry bird feeders every two weeks before refilling them with fresh seed. Experts recommend a cleaning solution of 1 part bleach to 9 parts hot water. Please take this necessary step to ensure the health and longevity of our local birds, and remember to bring your feeders indoors at night to avoid attracting bears.

Catherine Hagen

Aspen