The sun is well and truly shining, and hopefully it’ll only get hotter. Luckily for us, we can strip down to our costumes and laze about on our Outback reclining chairs. For birds however, it’s not that easy. The heat affects them just as much as it can affect us, but there are many things you can do to help your feathered friends in your garden this summer.
Keep water topped up
Bird baths are great for giving your feathered friends a place to have a dip or grab a quick drink. Keeping them topped up with fresh water will ensure they keep visiting and will help bring their body temperatures down. Other types of water sources for birds could be hanging baths or ground level bowls, so that all types of birds can benefit. Adding ice to bird baths will also ensure they stay cool for longer.
Provide natural shade
Try to lay off the pruning and cutting for a while during the hottest days, as trees and big plants can often provide some well needed shade for birds. Similarly, at the hottest time of the day, birds may want a quiet area of shelter to avoid the heat. Consider keeping your garden free of activities when they may be resting so that they can fully enjoy the sanctuary.
Continue to provide good food
Even though it’s hot, birds will still need good quality food. By providing them with food, you’re saving them the energy they’d use to search for it, so they’ll stay cool longer.
If you know any tips of your own for keeping birds cool in the heat, leave a comment below and let us know.
