Birds require significantly more water to stay hydrated during the UK heatwave, as panting to control body temperature causes considerable moisture loss. A gently sloping, shallow birdbath is ideal for enticing birds into your garden, providing a safe place to drink and cool off. However, pet supply specialist Kaytee warns that birds will avoid a bath positioned in an exposed area, as they feel vulnerable to predators.
Position Bird Baths in Shade to Keep Water Cool
Kaytee advises: "Temperatures are hottest in the middle of the day and late afternoon, and it can be difficult to help keep birds cool when the sun is blazing. Keeping the yard quiet and free of pets, children, and disruptive activities like lawn mowing or other chores at that time will provide birds with a peaceful, stress-free sanctuary just when they need to cool off the most." Birds steer clear of noisy areas because they fear predators attacking while they are defenceless. Simply relocating the bird bath to a shaded spot under bushes or trees offers birds cover and a swift escape route, while also keeping the water cool.
Avoid Pruning to Preserve Shelter and Food
Gardeners are urged not to prune during the heatwave. Birds rely on dense foliage to shelter from heat, and trimming plants can damage nests and diminish food supplies by removing berries or seeds. The expert added: "More natural shade will not only help birds stay cool, but thicker, unpruned plants will provide more secure nesting areas for summer birds as well as better shelter from thunderstorms or prowling predators." Pruning causes stress and forces birds to abandon their safe haven. Postponing gardening jobs during extreme heat is a vital measure to help birds remain cool and protected.
