Bird watchers are being reminded to take those feeders down to prevent the spread of a disease that can devastate local bird populations.

Frounce is spread in warm weather at feeders where birds gather.

Frounce parasites spread in bird droppings. It causes infected birds to become weak, and lose weight. Affected birds often have food stuck around their beaks.

While the illness has not yet been confirmed in this province, migratory bird populations are highly connected and it has already been reported in some other areas of Atlantic Canda.

Birds have access to abundant natural food and water this time of year and through the summer.

Bird feeders should be taken down but they can be put back up after the first heavy fall frost.