Living with Birds What is Aflatoxin? Tweetapedia

What is Aflatoxin?

Aflatoxin is a poisonous substance that is formed by mould (Aspergillus fungi) that can grow on seeds such as peanuts, sunflower hearts and walnuts.  It's particularly prevalent in peanuts. 

The mould forms Aflatoxin as a defence mechanism to out-compete other moulds and protect itself. 

Why is it dangerous to garden birds?

Aflatoxin is as the name suggests a toxin. It is harmful to garden birds and in rare cases can cause death. 

It causes liver damage to birds and increases their risk of cancer. 

How to mitigate the risks of feeding garden birds? 

• Feed bird only birds peanuts that are Aflatoxin tested
• Keep bird feeders clean and prevent the build-up of mould (that could produce Aflatoxin)
• Store bird food in a cool, dry place. Mould likes to grow in damp and humid conditions.