As the hot weather continues across the UK, many of us are looking for ways to stay cool — but garden birds face the same challenge. Unlike humans, birds cannot sweat, meaning they rely on shade, water and behavioural changes to regulate their body temperature. Now, ornithologists are urging gardeners to make a few simple changes that could help local wildlife stay cool and hydrated.
Why birds struggle in a heatwave
'Birds lack the sweat glands that humans have to help keep them cool, so they have to alter their behaviour,' says Maria Kincaid, in-house ornithologist for smart bird feeder, FeatherSnap
Put bird baths and feeders in shaded spots
'When the sun is at its warmest, you’re most likely to find birds in the cool shade of the trees, as the shade can make the temperature feel between five and ten degrees cooler. By placing things like bird baths and feeders in shady areas, you’re giving them a cool refuge for food, and helps to prevent food spoilage.'
But, be wary of moving bird houses into the shade unless you’re a hundred percent sure they are empty, Maria warns.
Keep the bird feeder topped up
'If you have a bird feeder, make sure you keep topping it up so birds can find nutritious treats that will give them the energy they need to cope with the heatwave,' suggests Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress.co.uk. 'You could also consider adding some cooling and refreshing treats such as berries or water-soaked mealworms.'
Fresh water is more important than food
A simple way to help birds in the scorching heat is to set up a bird bath in your garden – this not only provides a water source but also a place for birds to bathe and cool off.
'One of the ways that many birds will keep cool, besides angling their feathers to catch a breeze and panting to help release heat, is to take a quick dip, much like we would,' Maria explains. 'Provide a bird bath, and more than one if you’re able. Bird baths filled with cool, clean water not only provide a haven to cool feathers, but also a reliable source of drinking water to help replace what’s lost through respiration.'
Importantly, 'make sure to change the water regularly and consider adding some ice so the water stays cool', notes Chris.
Plant bird-friendly species for natural shade
Longer-term, you can help birds by planting native shrubs in your garden. Maria suggests starting with sunflowers, honeysuckle, and holly, to name a few. 'These plants offer shade, provide insects for food during the spring and summer, and provide seeds and fruit in the late summer and autumn,' she explains.
Avoid pruning
Trees and shrubs provide shade and shelter, helping birds stay cool, so avoid pruning, or at least postpone it until the weather has cooled down, notes Chris.
Minimise loud activities
'Birds are already under stress during a heatwave, so try to minimise disturbances in your garden, at least during the hottest times of the day. If possible, keep the garden quiet and free of pets and avoid loud gardening chores such as lawn mowing,' adds Chris.
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