As temperatures continue to climb across the UK and the heatwave maintains its scorching hold, it is not only people who are struggling with the sweltering conditions. Birds are also experiencing the effects of soaring temperatures, and those with gardens and outdoor spaces are being called upon to provide one essential item for our feathered visitors.
Birds Need Water 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 show that 43% of all bird species in the UK are at risk of vanishing over the coming decades. While summer offers bird lovers excellent chances for observing birds in gardens—particularly species like robins and blackbirds—these are also the months when temperatures typically reach their highest and heatwaves hit the country in quick succession.
Many people assume birds need assistance most during winter, but specialists reveal human support is equally vital, if not more so, in summer. The warmer months are when most birds raise their young, and elevated temperatures mean they require help to sustain energy levels.
Urgent Action: Provide Water
Bird specialists at Peckish, a bird food and accessories retailer, have revealed the one "urgent and crucial" task that must be carried out immediately to create safe and sheltered havens for garden birds. 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."
The experts provide guidance on establishing a water source, such as a bird bath, and making it as safe as possible:
- Position the water source two metres away from cover such as trees or shrubs, ensuring it remains visible while providing a safe retreat for birds.
- Ensure garden birds have access to ample fresh, clean water for both drinking and bathing.
- Regularly clean 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."
A water source is especially vital during the current heatwave, as hot, dry conditions make water scarce and cause it to evaporate quickly, leaving birds desperately thirsty and vulnerable.
Additional RHS Guidance
The RHS has provided essential guidance for looking after birds in UK gardens during summer:
- Avoid using pesticides, as insects form a vital part of a bird's diet.
- Hold off trimming hedges until late August, by which time nesting season will have safely concluded.
- Reduce the use of mains water, as it has a knock-on impact on wetland habitats.
What to Feed Birds in Summer
Specialists 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. High-energy food is the key to summer feeding. Live food is also recommended to supplement the food they can find in the wild."
In an unexpected development, 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. It is essential to ensure the food is placed in a clean and non-contaminated bird feeder. 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."
