Gardeners across the UK are being urged to place a tray of water in their gardens until Friday to help wildlife cope with the ongoing heatwave, as temperatures are forecast to soar to 40°C in London on Wednesday. The Met Office has issued red and amber extreme heat warnings covering most of England and Wales from Monday through Thursday.
Why Water Trays Are Essential
Hot, dry conditions with little rain can make life difficult for vital pollinators like bees, as well as birds, hedgehogs, frogs, and other wildlife that rely on fresh drinking water during the summer months. Bumblebees, which have a furry coat adapted to the UK's usually moderate climate, are particularly vulnerable to overheating, according to the WWF.
Paul De Ornellas, Chief Adviser for Wildlife at WWF, explained: "Bumblebees are crucial for pollinating crops, fruits, and plants. Unfortunately, like many insects, bumblebees are in decline due to habitat loss linked to land use change, pesticides, and pollution, all made worse by climate change." He added that as temperatures rise, bumblebees are moving north but some species may have nowhere left to go.
How to Set Up a Wildlife Water Station
De Ornellas advised gardeners to place a shallow tray of water with pebbles, branches, or bark above the water level so bees can rest while drinking. He also suggested planting flowers in shaded areas to provide relief for bumblebees. The Wildlife Trusts notes that water is essential not just for drinking but also for amphibians like newts, frogs, and toads as shelter and breeding grounds, and for birds to bathe and remove parasites.
Heatwave Forecast Details
The Met Office forecasts temperatures will quickly rise on Monday, reaching 34°C in southern England, with a chance of thundery showers. Tuesday will see highs of 37°C in southern England and 35°C in southeast Wales. The peak is expected on Wednesday and Thursday, with temperatures climbing to at least 39°C and a chance of exceeding that. The red warning joins existing amber extreme heat warnings covering much of southern and central England and Wales.
Gardeners are encouraged to maintain water trays until Friday to help wildlife endure the drought conditions.
