How to support wildlife during the summer

Heatwaves can be life-threatening

Animals cannot always regulate their body temperature as effectively as humans (and they can’t adjust their environments easily). Birds, small mammals and amphibians are especially vulnerable to overheating and dehydration.

Water and food become scarce

Heatwaves dry up natural water sources like ponds, streams and soil moisture meaning food sources become scarce; herbivores struggle to find fresh plants and birds, bats and hedgehogs cannot find insects or worms.

Habitat conditions deteriorate

Extreme heat can damage habitats; plants become dried and shelter and nesting sites are destroyed. Soil is hardened making burrowing more difficult. Ponds become too warm and oxygen levels drop.

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