House Finch Eye Disease... what do I do?

[Rob'in'To]

I was filling the feeders this afternoon and noticed this female House Finch buzzing around kinda funny like.  She had a hard time landing properly as well.  Finally she sat at one feeder because she couldn't land on the other feeder perches...  this one is the big tank of a feeder compared to the others.

Anyway, getting a good look at her, took a few pictures, noticing her left eye is not looking too good.  I have heard of an eye disease in House Finches, and notice it on the Project Feeder Watch Report pages, as a selection to check off, if ever noticed.  So, this is my first time ever seeing this.

So, the internet is great for searching but the information can be overwhelming too.  I fear of how this can spread to the other House Finches and if also to other birds visiting.  One page says this, another says that.

Has anyone experienced something like this before?  Does anyone have some easy terms, like you need to do this, or should do that, etc. from knowledge and personal experiences?  

The Finch sat on the feeder right in front of me for a very long time, didn't move as I did what I had to do out there.  She sat and ate steadily, occasionally teetering off the perch, but settling back in to feed some more.  It is very obvious the left eye is useless and is effecting her judgement.  I watched her fly up into the cedars and have a sit.  Then, that bold Sharpie was watching from a well hidden spot, and came darting out, once again over my head and straight for her.  She took off quick, disappearing through the cedars and so did the Hawk.  I am not sure of the outcome.  Hate to say, but if he caught her, it would be a blessing for sure.

Anyways, if someone here has some facts, info, or a good link to share with me.  Much appreciated.  

Here is a pic of her, from the photos I have seen in my search, I would definitely say this is Mycoplasmal Conjunctivitis.  

[Reuven_M]

I'd say take the feeder(s) down, wash the one(s) where the house finches feed reasonably well, and wait a couple days. Hopefully the bird won't come back at that point.

[feathered]

If the bird is a regular visitor to your feeders, you should call the Toronto Wildlife Centre and leave a message at the hotline number (416) 631-0662. Rescue staff might be able to come out and catch it or give you pointers on containing it yourself if her flight is that impaired (just wear gloves and wash your hands thoroughly before letting them anywhere near your eyes afterwards) - so it can be admitted to the hospital. Then give your feeders a thorough clean.

[Bird Brain]

Poor little sweetie.  

"What should I do if I see a bird with conjunctivitis?

Take down your feeders and clean them with a 10% bleach solution (1 part bleach and 9 parts water). Let them dry completely and then re-hang them. Also, rake underneath the feeder to remove old seed and bird droppings."

[Rob'in'To]

Thanks for the advice.  Six years of bird feeding, counting birds and watching them every day, doing the Project Feeder Watch and looking out for this...  this is the first for me with a House Finch.  The rest appear okay but I will watch them closely now.

I washed the feeder I saw her on.  I will give the others I think she might be able to land on a wipe over the weekend.  She has serious vision problems with obviously little use of her left eye right now and a few of the feeders I doubt she can land on.

I sent an e-mail to Bird Studies Canada in hopes of further information and even to just report this.  I am not sure if they still track this or not.  I should look at my data sheets for PFW.

I wish I knew if the Sharpie did get her or not.

The search on the internet was horrible and heart-breaking, seeing some of the photos others have shared.

Thanks again.  I will update in a few days.

[egret]

I am saddened to read about
this little finch

let us know

I sure hope something
can be done


sending positive vibes
for all the birds


Egret