How to look out for birds in hot weather

Brits are being advised on how to help their garden birds stay cool in hot weather.

Experts from GardeningExpress.co.uk have provided their top tips for keeping much-loved garden birds, such as robins, tits and blackbirds stay safe in sweltering temperatures.

Extreme heat can pose a serious risk to birds as it can cause dehydration, stress and heat strokes

Hot weather can dry up birds’ natural water sources, so it is recommended to provide them with fresh water, such as a bird bath or a shallow water dish in the garden.

Gardeners should also consider moving their bird feeders into the shade and minimise pruning trees and shrubs to provide them shelter.

Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress.co.uk said: “Just like us, our feathered friends can struggle to cope in hot temperatures.

“Simple things like putting out a shallow water disk, providing shelter and shade and topping up feeders with refreshing treats can offer birds much-needed relief from the heat.

“Gardeners might want to consider adding a bird bath to their garden which not only provides a water source but also a place for birds to bathe and cool off.

“If possible, it’s also recommended to minimise pruning and loud activities like lawn mowing to attract birds to the garden.”

Here are GardeningExpress.co.uk‘s top tips for helping birds keep cool in hot weather:

1. Provide water

Natural water sources are scarce in hot temperatures so providing birds with fresh water can make a big difference. Gardeners can purchase a bird bath or put out a water dish where birds can bathe and drink. Make sure to change the water regularly and consider adding some ice so the water stays cool.

2. Offer refreshing treats

If you have a bird feeder, make sure you keep topping it up so birds can find nutritious treats that will give them the energy they need to cope with the heatwave. You could also consider adding some cooling and refreshing treats such as berries or water-soaked mealworms.

3. Move bird feeder into the shade

If your bird feeder is exposed to the sun, move it to a shady spot, such as under mature trees so the birds can stay away from the heat while they’re eating. Besides providing shelter from the sun, positioning the feeder in the shade will also help prevent bird food from spoiling in direct sunlight.

4. Avoid pruning

Trees and shrubs provide shade and shelter, helping birds stay cool. That’s why it’s best to avoid pruning, or at least postpone it until the weather has cooled down.

5. Minimise loud activities

Birds are already under stress during a heatwave, so try to minimise disturbances in your garden, at least during the hottest times of the day. If possible, keep the garden quiet and free of pets and avoid loud gardening chores such as lawn mowing.