WDFW: Keep bird feeders down for another month

OLYMPIA - Wild bird feeders should not be put out for another five weeks, advises the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Because of a series of reports of sick or dead birds at backyard feeders across the northwest, the agency tells residents to beware.

"You can help to stop the spread of salmonellosis by discontinuing backyard bird feeding until at least April 1, to encourage birds to disperse and forage naturally," said WDFW veterinarian Dr. Kristin Mansfield.

Earlier, WDFW asked residents to remove or clean feeders in response to a die-of of finches, such as pine siskins and other...