Nine tips to help Northern Ireland wildlife in scorching heat

Wildlife and animal protection groups are urging the public to do what they can to protect pets and other species amid rising temperatures.

Ulster Wildlife’s Director of Nature, Climate and Environment, Annika Clements, has urged people to provide watering stations for little visitors to their gardens.

Meanwhile the USPCA’s development manager, Colleen Tinnelly, has issued guidance about to keep cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, other pets and caged birds cool.

Read more: Watch: Behind the scenes with Rathlin Islanders helping endangered puffins

Ms Clement said: “Sadly, we are facing a nature and climate crisis and we cannot solve one without the other.

“As extreme weather events like this become more frequent, many of our local species will become increasingly at risk of extinction and measures are needed to help them adapt to climate change.

“Remember to spare a thought for our local wildlife who will be struggling too to keep cool.

“Keep your watering stations, ponds and bird baths topped up with water, and let some of your garden grow wild to provide much-needed shade.”

Ms Tinnelly said: “Severe dehydration and overheating can be fatal, and it is therefore vital that members of the public are aware of how best they can look after their much-loved companions.

“Whilst pet weather warnings often give consideration to dogs, cats and smaller animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters, it’s important not to forget about our feathered friends.

“Please ensure your bird’s cage is in a shaded, cool area of the house and that they have access to cool, fresh water at all times. We would also recommend having good air circulation with an open window or fan.

“Ways in which we can help birds during the warmer weather also extend to wild birds right on our doorstep.

“With minimal rainfall and scorching temperatures, water may not be as readily available for our garden birds – consider leaving out a dish of water, or if you have a bird bath, keeping it regularly topped up with cool water.

“It may also be helpful to leave out some additional food as during hot weather, natural food sources such as worms, tend to be in shorter supply.

“During nesting season, providing a little extra food can go a long way in helping the survival of young birds.

“Should you see a wild bird in distress or difficulty, please contact us for assistance on 028 3025 1000.”

A fulmar sea bird beside West Lighthouse (Justin Kernoghan)

Ulster Wildlife’s top tips to help wildlife in the hot weather

Provide enough water

• Provide a shallow dish of water for thirsty birds and mammals and even insects. Placing a small stone in the centre will help any insects that fall in.

Top up the bird bath

• Top up the bird bath regularly with fresh, clean water to help birds keep their feathers in good condition.
• Top up the bird feeders
• Keep bird feeders topped up and scatter soaked raisins and apple chunks on the grass for thrushes and other animals. Please note: bird feeders must be cleaned regularly in light of avian flu.
• Top up your pond
• Ponds that are low can be topped up. If your rain barrel is empty use tap water – but add little and often.

Stay messy

• Wilder areas in the garden will provide shelter for a range of wildlife, so don’t be too tidy.
• Provide enough cover from the sun
• Provide logs, rockeries, stone slabs and tall grass which will provide cover and shelter from the heat for frogs and newts.

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