As the UK continues to bake in a heatwave, gardeners are being urged to perform one daily task in July to protect beloved wildlife such as robins and hedgehogs. The RSPCA and other wildlife charities stress that while providing fresh water is essential, cleaning water containers daily and drying them before refilling is crucial to minimise disease transmission among small creatures.
Why Daily Cleaning Matters
Chris Calow, a wildlife advisor for the RSPB, explains: "While we sit back and relax with an ice-cold drink, our garden birds might not be having such a good time. Turning your outside space into a home for nature by doing simple things like topping up your bird bath, creating a makeshift pond from a washing-up bowl, or putting down a saucer filled with water could offer a vital lifeline." Birds need water for bathing to maintain their feathers, and natural water sources are depleted during hot weather.
Helping Hedgehogs Too
The British Hedgehog Preservation Society notes that fresh water can be a lifesaver for hedgehogs and their hoglets. Fay Vass, CEO of the society, said: "Water and food is scarce for hedgehogs when it's hot and dry, making water available can literally save a life! Pop a few pebbles in to make sure insects can escape and if you can, offer visiting hedgehogs some meaty cat or dog food too."
Best Practices for Water Stations
Water bowls should be shallow, and garden ponds must include escape routes for hedgehogs should they fall in. The RSPCA also advises placing water dishes away from bushes and trees to reduce predation risk from cats, and keeping water away from bird tables to prevent contamination. Gardeners should replenish ponds, exercise caution when mowing lawns or lighting bonfires, and never give milk to hedgehogs—only plain, fresh water.
Impact of the Heatwave
With temperatures remaining high and British gardens resembling deserts, these simple actions can make a significant difference. By cleaning and refilling water containers daily, gardeners help robins, hedgehogs, and other wildlife stay safe and hydrated during the summer heatwave.
