How To Help Birds With Water During Summers
Humans are very lucky to have access to water whenever and wherever they want. Birds on the other hand, have no such luck.
Summer is cruel to everyone, but more so to birds and other animals. Our feathered friends find it harder to survive the heat without shade or water. Some end up flying miles to get to a water body, but by the time they reach there, many usually die due to heat and dehydration.
All birds need is some fresh, clean water for drinking and bathing. Most birds drink water every day. The bathing is important for them to clean their feathers and remove any parasites or insects that may have stuck to them. Not just that, providing water for birds gives you a chance to watch them up-close and notice their behaviour too! Imagine enjoying your cup of tea on your patio or balcony with the birds drinking water and bathing in glory!
The first thing you can do to help birds in the summers is to get a good birdbath. A birdbath is similar to a shallow puddle - a natural option for birds that live in the wild. Choose a shallow container which is easy to clean. Maybe an old frying pan, baking pan, even plastic containers or lids.
If you have access to a big garden, how about digging up a shallow hole and lining it with some waterproof material to provide birds with a basin in the ground. Although, only do it if you are sure no cats will come and harm them. You could also put the birdbath some feet above the ground where only the birds can reach it. Consider placing some sand or stones at the bottom of the bath so birds can stand on them and drink.
Always remember to keep the water fresh for them. To do so, change the water in the birdbath and clean it at least once a week. If you spot any algae growth, it’s best to immediately discard it, or clean it thoroughly to get rid of it. Also ensure that the bowl is kept in shade so that the water doesn’t dry up. Another good idea to attract the birds to the bath is to keep a dripper near the water to keep the water moving.
These gestures of kindness will not take up much of your time, but will end up helping birds in a big way. So this summer, let’s pledge to keep some water aside for our cute little feathered friends, too!