Saving Animals Together since 1983

Saving Animals Together since 1983

Ways to help local wildlife during the hot summer months

While we’re all enjoying this sunshine, our wild furry and feathered friends need our help to keep them safe in these extreme temperatures

Extreme heat can be tough on wildlife. As temperatures rise and habitats become less friendly, understanding how to assist animals in distress is crucial. This blog post outlines practical strategies to help you as a wildlife advocate while knowing what actions can create a positive impact for local wildlife.

Understanding the Impact of Heatwaves on Wildlife

Heatwaves can severely affect habitats and the animals within them. Food sources may diminish during heatwaves, water dries up and the extreme heat can cause heat stroke.

Create Water Sources

wildlife heatwave

Providing water is one of the best ways to help wildlife in a heatwave.

Birdbaths: Set up a birdbath in your yard, ensuring it has shallow areas for smaller birds. Change the water daily to keep it clean. You can attract various bird species, such as hummingbirds and finches.

Water Stations: Place small containers filled with water in shady spots. This can help ground-dwelling animals like rabbits that may not reach elevated birdbaths.

Plant Native Vegetation

Native plants are specially adapted to local climates, making them vital for wildlife. By incorporating them into your garden, you can create essential shade and habitats.

Shade and Food: Local trees and shrubs not only provide shade but also produce fruits, seeds, and leaves that animals rely on. For instance, a single oak tree can support over 500 species of caterpillars, providing food for birds.

Provide Shelter

wildlife heatwave

Animals often seek cover from the harsh sun during extreme heat. Making your garden a safe space which will help local wildlife tremendously.

Natural Cover: Leave areas of your garden wild. Tall grasses, shrubs, and leaves create natural shelters for critters. For example, a small brush pile can house small mammals and insects, and creates a shady resting spot for wildlife such as foxes.

Create Shelters: Build or install nesting boxes or homes for birds and small mammals. These structures offer refuge from intense sunlight and heat.

Support Local Wildlife Organisations

In times of need, collective action amplifies individual efforts.

Get Involved: Contribute to local wildlife organisations focused on addressing climate change and habitat loss. For instance, you could volunteer for a tree-planting project or donate to help fund wildlife rescues.

Awareness Campaigns: Participate in or promote initiatives that educate communities about the needs of wildlife during heat waves. Spreading the word can lead to greater collective action.

South Essex Wildlife Hospital are our local wildlife rescue facility, so if you find a wild animal suffering during this heatwave, reach out to them for advice.

Educate Others

Sharing knowledge empowers others to take action.

Talk About It: Initiate discussions with your community about the impact of heatwaves on wildlife. Your conversations could inspire others to make a difference.

Social Outreach: Use community boards, newsletters, or social media to spread information about how everyone can contribute to wildlife well-being during heatwaves.

Practice Responsible Recreation

As people flock to parks and beaches during heatwaves, responsible enjoyment of nature is vital for wildlife safety.

Leave No Trace: Always clean up your area to prevent littering, pollution and even fires. By taking all your rubbish with you, this small act can protect habitats for various species. If you’re on a beach and leave your rubbish, that rubbish WILL end up in the sea which, as we all know, is devastating for wildlife.

Stay on Trails: Stick to designated paths to avoid disturbing natural habitats. This allows animals to maintain their spaces and reduces stress on their ecosystems.

Making a Difference

Wildlife needs our support more than ever during extreme heat. By providing water, shelter, and engaging in education, you can make a substantial impact on local wildlife.

Every action counts in preserving the delicate balance of ecosystems. You have the power to help wildlife survive and thrive despite the heat. Collectively, we can foster a greater understanding and respect for the natural world.

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