Manx Wild Bird Aid: 'There is nothing to suggest you should stop feeding garden birds'

'There is nothing to suggest you should stop feeding garden birds'.

That's the message from local charity - Manx Wild Bird Aid, amid advice from the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture.

DEFA has previously asked people not to feed any wild birds - including those in your garden.

The department claims feeding them encourages birds to congregate and mix, which then increases the risk of them passing bird flu onto each other.

However in a post on social media yesterday - MWBA says there is nothing to suggest this - especially at this time of year when they rely on the food humans provide in order to survive. 

The charity does advise to keep feeders and tables scrupulously clean and to wash your hands thoroughly after handling feeders. 

If you'd like to donate to MWBA - you can find more information here.