Eric,Pine siskins are very susceptible to salmonella; that is, reportedly, the culprit.  It doesn't show any signs on the feet or eyes, just a lethargic and puffed up, obviously sick looking bird.  
https://www.seattleaudubon.org/sas/Learn/SeasonalFacts/BirdDiseases/Salmonellosis.aspx


Peggy Mundy -- Bothell



On Wednesday, December 30, 2020, 01:49:06 p.m. PST, Eric Ellingson <abriteway at hotmail.com> wrote:

Yesterday I had a conversation about a dying Pine Siskin in Skagit county at a feeder.  Later in the day I found a dead one under my feeder in Whatcom, the first I've ever seen. I only get a few at my feeder as Purple & House Finch and Juncos dominate. 
My thoughts are with such large numbers this year and relatively short life spans there has to be a significant percent of die-off each year. Could the ones at our feeders be weaker ones who cannot keep up with the flock feeding high up in Alders and such? I have not been as good as I could be cleaning my 8 feeders but I have not noticed the weird feet/eye diseases this year common in finch. Interesting all the reports in a short time span.
Who knows? Always sad to see.
Eric_______________________________________________
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