As temperatures continue to soar and many British gardens become more of a desert than a wildlife oasis, you may be wondering how you can keep our precious robins and hedgehogs safe.
Wildlife charities are asking gardeners to think about Britain’s wild animals in a multitude of ways, but there is one daily task you can carry out in July will help keep them safe and well.
It is well known that putting out a supply of fresh water in the gardens or outdoor space helps wildlife in the heat – but there is something else Brits need to bear in mind.
Cleaning water containers daily and dry them before refilling is essential in order to reduce the risk of spreading disease among these small animals, as per the RSPCA.
“While we sit back and relax in the outside with an ice-cold drink, generally revelling in an unusually sunny weather, our garden birds might not be having such a good time,” says Chris Calow, a wildlife advisor for the RSPB.
“Turning your outside space into a home for nature by doing simple things like topping up your bird bath, creating a make-shift pond from a washing-up bowl, or putting down a saucer filled with water could offer a vital lifeline to some of our much-loved garden birds that are already fighting against declines.”
Birds need water to bathe in order to keep their feathers in good condition – and as natural water sources dry up this can be hard.
It is advised water bowls should be shallow, and that garden ponds have ways for hedgehogs to climb out if they fall in.
The RSPCA also asks that gardeners avoid placing water dishes too close to bushes and trees, to minimise birds and animals being preyed on by cats or other predators.
You should also keep water away from the bird table and other feeding areas to avoid dirty water, topping up ponds and taking care when mowing lawns or lighting bonfires to avoid burning or hurting any animals that may be hiding.
It also warned not to give milk to hedgehogs, only plain, fresh water.
Fay Vass, CEO said “Water and food is scarce for hedgehogs when it’s hot and dry, making water available can literally save a life! Pop a few pebbles in to make sure insects can escape and if you can, offer visiting hedgehogs some meaty cat or dog food too.”
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