As temperatures remain high and many British gardens turn into arid landscapes rather than wildlife havens, gardeners may wonder how to help protect robins and hedgehogs. Wildlife charities are urging gardeners to consider Britain's wild animals, highlighting one daily measure that can keep them safe and healthy.
Providing a supply of fresh water in gardens or outdoor spaces helps wildlife during hot weather, but there is another step Britons need to take. According to the RSPCA, cleaning water containers daily and drying them before refilling is crucial to minimise the risk of spreading disease among small creatures.
Water Vital for Hedgehogs and Birds
Water is equally vital for smaller mammals such as hedgehogs. The British Hedgehog Preservation Society stated that fresh water can be a lifesaver for hedgehogs and their hoglets.
"While we sit back and relax in the outside with an ice-cold drink, generally revelling in an unusually sunny weather, our garden birds might not be having such a good time," says Chris Calow, a wildlife advisor for the RSPB. "Turning your outside space into a home for nature by doing simple things like topping up your bird bath, creating a make-shift pond from a washing-up bowl, or putting down a saucer filled with water could offer a vital lifeline to some of our much-loved garden birds that are already fighting against declines."
Birds require water for bathing to maintain their feathers in optimal condition, and as natural water sources become depleted, this can prove difficult.
Safety Tips for Water Containers
It is recommended that water bowls should be shallow, and that garden ponds have escape routes for hedgehogs should they tumble in. The RSPCA also requests that gardeners refrain from positioning water dishes too near to bushes and trees, to reduce the risk of birds and animals being hunted by cats or other predators.
Water containers should be kept separate from the bird table and other feeding stations to prevent contaminated water. Gardeners should replenish ponds and exercise caution when cutting lawns or lighting bonfires to avoid burning or injuring any animals that may be concealed. The RSPCA also cautioned against giving milk to hedgehogs, advising only plain, fresh water.
Fay Vass, CEO of the British Hedgehog Preservation Society, said: "Water and food are 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."
