Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) has confirmed two reports in the Newtonmore area so far of the deadly disease, Trichomonas, which is found amongst species of greenfinches and chaffinches.

Trichomonas is a parasite which causes inflammation of the gullet and throat and most commonly affects the two species, although the house sparrow is also susceptible to the disease.

Characteristics of the parasite include ulcerations and difficulties with swallowing and if unchecked can progress to complete obstruction of the bird's throat.

David Carstairs, SNH area officer, said that locals could help the birds – and stem the spread of the disease simply by cleaning their garden feeders which appears to be one of the main points of infection.

He said: "Reports of the condition among green finches are just coming in from Strathspey at this time. It is thought that the parasite that is causing it is being picked up at infected feeders."

"People buy feeders and fill them with peanuts, but at the end of the breeding season when they should put the feeders away they never think to wash it and it may well be the infection is spreading that way.

"It's basic hygiene really – give the feeders a good scrub."

The disease is not transmittable to humans or animals such as cats – only through bird to bird saliva contact.

Another way the bug is passed on is through birds feeding one another with regurgitated food during the breeding season.

"The most obvious sign of the disease is birds with heads tucked under their wings and a lack of energy," said Mr Carstairs. "As a precautionary measure, people are advised not to handle any dead bird.

The beautifully-coloured greenfinch could be under threat from a deadly bird disease. Dr Gus Jones

"Our advice is if you see any dead bird, just leave it alone and phone the DEFRA helpline for advice.

"And if you do have to remove a dead bird, don't do it with your bare hands. Use a plastic bag or something to protect yourself and dispose of it."

The disease was first spotted in British finch species during summer 2005 and an epidemic broke out in 2006, which affected birds across southern England.

To help prevent and control the transmission of the parasite, people have also been urged to provide clean and fresh drinking water on a daily basis.

They are also being asked to rotate positions of feeders in the garden to avoid a build up of contamination in any one area, paying particular attention to clearing food which has fallen to the ground.

An RSPB Scotland spokesperson said: "Good hygiene is important whenever birds are being fed. We recommend that people clean both bird tables and feeders regularly, using a mild disinfectant, keeping the feeding equipment outside while cleaning.

"It is not yet known whether this disease might have an impact on garden bird populations, but we are tracking the disease's progress and encourage people to report any incidents."

The charity's wildlife enquiries team can be contacted at wildlife@rspb.org.uk or by calling 01767 693690. DEFRA is also investigating the outbreak and anyone who spots a dead finch in their garden is urged to contact their helpline on 08459 335577.

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