YES! You are correct.
Spoiled seed beneath the feeders can cause the spread of salmonella among birds. The same is true on platform-type feeders, if spoiled seed or empty hulls are allowed to build up there. The feces that accumulate in such conditions contribute to disease problems. Therefore, in March, as the accumulated seed and hulls begins to thaw, rake it up and deposit it in your compost pile or dispose of it in your garbage. Incidentally, hummingbirds and orioles don't return to Iowa until May.
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