Australia is renowned for its beautiful, sunny summers but with that comes the reality of heatwaves. We can retreat indoors or cool off in a pool, our incredible native wildlife isn’t always so fortunate. Extreme temperatures can be devastating, leading to dehydration, heat stress, and even death for many animals.
Just like humans, animals need consistent access to water to regulate their body temperature and maintain essential bodily functions. During a heatwave natural water sources can dry up quickly, leaving animals vulnerable. They might have to travel long distances in extreme heat to find water, expending precious energy and increasing their risk of heat stress. Providing accessible water points can significantly reduce this struggle.
You Can Help Our Wildlife This Summer:
Provide water stations:
- Refresh daily: Always use fresh, clean water. Stagnant water can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mosquitoes.
- Clean regularly: Scrub dishes thoroughly to prevent algae and pathogen build up.
- Place in multiple spots: Offer several water sources in different locations. This helps reduce competition and caters to animals with varying preferences or territorial ranges. Consider placing some in shaded areas and some in more open spots, ensuring visibility.
Use shallow dishes & rocks:
- Safety first: Opt for shallow dishes or bowls to prevent smaller birds and mammals from drowning. A ceramic plant saucer is often ideal.
- Add rocks or pebbles: Place a few rocks or stones in the dish. This provides a safe perch for birds to drink without getting fully submerged and offers an escape route for insects and small creatures if they fall in.
- Avoid deep containers: Buckets or deep pet bowls can be dangerous drowning hazards for smaller animals.
Offer shade:
- Natural cover: Plant native trees and shrubs in your garden to provide natural shade and cooler resting spots.
- Artificial shade: If you don’t have ample tree cover, consider positioning a large umbrella, a piece of old tin, or even a shade cloth near your water station. This allows animals to drink and rest in cooler conditions, away from direct sunlight.
We all can make a difference by taking these simple steps in our backyard and local area. you can provide vital support and help our wildlife survive the scorching summer months. Remember, every drop of water and every patch of shade can make a world of difference to an animal fighting for survival.
