As the UK heatwave continues, gardeners are being urged to provide water for garden birds, which are struggling with soaring temperatures. According to the RHS, Britain's birds "are in trouble, and they need our help." A 2023 State of Nature report revealed that 43% of all bird species in the UK face the prospect of vanishing over the coming decades.
Water Is the Most Valuable Commodity for Birds in Summer
Bird specialists at Peckish, a bird food and accessories retailer, have described providing water as an "urgent and crucial" task. They explain: "Water is the most valuable commodity for birds in summer. Be sure to leave shallow trays of water out for birds, particularly during dry spells. Even better are ponds, which won't need to be topped up as often, and will also provide insects for birds to eat."
Sean McMenemy, Wildlife expert at Ark Wildlife, reinforces the advice: "With many pathogens, such as E. coli and Salmonella, active in warm weather, it's important to maintain good hygiene for bird health. Warm, stagnant bird baths can become breeding grounds for disease if not regularly cleaned. We recommend rinsing bird baths daily and giving them a full scrub at least once a week."
Feeding Birds in Summer
The experts at Gardeners' World say: "Feeding birds used to be a winter activity, but birds need our help in the summer months too, to ensure they have energy enough to survive leaner times ahead. Just as in winter, high-energy food is the key to summer feeding. Live food is also recommended, to supplement the food they can find in the wild."
The RSPB recommends avoiding filling bird feeders with peanuts and seeds between May and the end of October. Instead, modest quantities of mealworms, suet, or fatballs are advised. The RSPB shares: "During summer and autumn, there's a higher risk of disease spreading. But it's also when there are more natural foods available to birds, such as seeds and insects."
Creating Safe Havens for Birds
To help garden birds survive scorching temperatures, creating safe and sheltered havens is essential. The RHS has provided guidance on looking after birds in UK gardens during the summer period, emphasizing the importance of clean water and proper hygiene to prevent disease spread.
