Hi.....I need help. I have a great passion for birds and enjoy feeding and waching the wild birds. Recently i have noticed many unwell and dying Green Finches and having sent 2 dead ones to the lab i have discovered cause of death to be Salmonella.

I am really stressed now and don't know what to do. I am considering not feeding the birds, but my heart breaks as many wild birds depend on the food i provide. I have noticed many rats around my feeders, well actually on the feeders and i am wondering if they could be the cause of this disease outbreak?? Is it true that i can mix chilli powder with the seeds to deter the rats?? Please help ..........its so sad seeing all these sick and dying Finches and i'm worried it will then pass to other species.