CJ Wildlife is urging gardeners to help keep wild birds keep cool in the hot weather, and has published its top five tips.
With the recent soaring temperatures our thoughts are on long summer days, barbeques and beaches. But as we sit back and relax in our gardens with an ice cold drink we should spare a thought for our garden birds who may be struggling to find essential food and water.
Although most wild birds are well adapted to hot temperatures and have several ways to regulate their body temperature the hot weather still brings with it a number of problems that can impact on their well being.
Warm weather creates a breeding ground for parasites, so cleanliness around feeding stations and water baths becomes paramount in order to minimise the spread of disease. Ark-Klens is a veterinarian recommended cleaning product for bird feeders and tables and is completely safe for use around wildlife and domestic animals. It is effective against a wide range of bacteria, viruses and fungi.
The dry summer months can also result in a lack of natural water sources so a supply of fresh water for drinking and bathing is fundamental. Adding a natural sanitizing product such as Citrosan to clean water dishes and bird baths will help against the spread of disease. It also builds immunity so is a great boost for young birds.
Hot temperatures and a lack of water mean the ground becomes dry and hard making it more difficult for our feathered friends to access the supply of worms and insects that they can usually find in the soil. Birds will appreciate high protein foods including mealworms, earthworms and waxworms during the summer months. They also have a high moisture content so will help to keep birds hydrated during periods of prolonged dry weather.
Not surprisingly, finding a shady spot is one of the natural ways birds keep cool in the summer. So planting our gardens with trees and shrubs offering deep shade is a great way to create a welcome cooling retreat from the mid day sun.
Our 5 Top Tips to keep your birds cool and content this summer
- Provide a regular supply of clean, fresh water
- Clean feeders regularly to help avoid the spread of pests and diseases
- Keep feeders topped up with fresh food
- Feed live foods, such as mealworms to your birds – a great source of protein when natural food sources are scarce (particularly for young birds)
- If you’re going away on holiday fill your feeders before you go or even better ask a neighbour to keep them topped up while you are away.
Enjoy the summer and take advantage of the glorious weather by getting out and about for a day of bird watching but be sure to take precautions to protect yourself from the heat too – pack your sun-cream, a hat and plenty of drinking water!
CJ Wildlife supply a range of high quality bird food, feeders and water baths as well as cleaning materials to help keep feeding areas clean and free from harmful bacteria. For more information and advice or to request a Free Wildlife Guide visit www.birdfood.co.uk or call on Freephone 0800 731 2820.
