These 3 Foods Will Protect Birds from the Heat, Expert Reveals

With weather forecasts predicting temperatures of up to 30 degrees for this weekend, garden birds face extra challenges in staying hydrated and healthy. 

Bird food supplier Richard Green from Kennedy Wild Bird Food & Pet Supplies shares the best food to leave out for birds in high temperatures, and other tips to help birds in your garden.

Feed birds high-energy foods
“Summer can be a challenging time for wild birds, as they have higher energy needs. Offering high-energy foods like sunflower hearts, suet pellets, and dried mealworms can support their endurance during the heat. 

“These foods are packed with the necessary fats and proteins that birds need to maintain their strength, especially during fledgling season. Avoid homemade fat balls, as they can spoil quickly in the heat and pose a health risk. Don’t overfill feeders in hot weather, as this will prevent food from spoiling and spreading diseases.”

Clean feeders and bird baths every 2 weeks
“Hot temperatures can quickly turn bird feeders and baths into breeding grounds for bacteria and mould. To protect birds from harmful pathogens, it’s important to stick to a regular cleaning routine, scrub feeders with a mild disinfectant every two weeks and replace any old food. 

“Similarly, bird baths should be cleaned daily so that the water remains fresh. This helps to create a safe and healthy environment for birds to feed and bathe.”

Water your plants for more insects

“Insects provide a valuable food source for birds. By keeping plants hydrated, bees, butterflies, and other insects have access to water. These insects then become an important meal for birds, especially during hot weather.”

Bird baths at least 1-2 inches deep

“Providing fresh water is essential for wild birds, especially during the hot summer months. Birds lose water through various means, including respiration and excretion, which can become a serious issue in high temperatures. 

“Bird baths don’t need to be fancy, even a shallow dish with 1-2 inches of water can help them stay hydrated and regulate their body temperature. It’s important to keep the water clean and place it in a shaded area to encourage more birds to visit.”

Create shade and shelter

“Shade is important for birds to cool off during the hottest parts of the day. Trees, dense bushes, and even longer grasses provide birds with much-needed refuge from the sun. By planting a variety of shrubs and trees in your garden, you can offer birds a safe, cool environment where they can rest and rejuvenate.

“Additionally, adding birdhouses or garden fountains can provide both shelter and a water source, making your garden more inviting to wildlife.”

Protect birds from predators

“Placing water dishes near bushes or trees may attract predators, particularly cats, which often hide in shrubs waiting to ambush birds. To reduce the risk of predator attacks, place water sources away from areas where predators might be lurking.”