As temperatures continue to soar across Britain and the heatwave tightens its grip, it is not just humans who are struggling to cope with the blistering conditions. Our feathered friends are also feeling the impact, and those with gardens are being urged to provide one crucial item: water.
Why Water is Essential for Birds in Summer
According to the RHS, Britain's birds 'are in trouble, and they need our help'. Figures from a 2023 State of Nature report reveal that 43% of all bird species in the UK are at risk of disappearing over the coming decades. While many assume birds need assistance most in winter, experts say human support is equally essential during summer, when most birds rear their chicks and soaring temperatures increase their need for water to maintain energy levels.
Bird specialists at Peckish, a bird food and accessories retailer, have unveiled the single 'urgent and crucial' task: '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.'
How to Set Up a Safe Water Source
The experts advise positioning the water source two metres away from cover such as trees or shrubs, ensuring birds remain visible while providing a safe retreat. They also recommend regularly cleaning feeding and drinking areas using a mild disinfectant.
Sean McMenemy, Wildlife expert at Ark Wildlife, echoes 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.'
Additional Summer Bird Care Tips
The RHS also advises: avoid using pesticides in gardens, as insects form a vital portion of a bird's diet; hold off trimming hedges until late August, by which time nesting season will have concluded; and reduce the use of mains water, as it impacts wetland habitats.
Regarding food, specialists at Gardeners' World explain that high-energy food is key in summer, with live food recommended to supplement natural finds. However, the RSPB advises against filling bird feeders with peanuts and seeds between May and the end of October. Instead, small amounts of mealworms, suet, and fatballs are recommended. The RSPB notes: '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.'
By providing clean water and following these guidelines, gardeners can help robins, blackbirds, and other species survive the summer heat.
