Neighbor News
Creating a Cool Haven for Birds to Beat the Summer Heat
Helping Birds Chill in the Summer Heat
Big Red, our magnificent Northern Cardinal, is just like us and enjoys taking a refreshing dip to escape the scorching summer sun. Although Big Red’s birdbath is much smaller than a pool, you get the idea. Water is a great way to beat the high temperatures. Just like us, birds have their ways of cooling off when temperatures hit triple digits.
How Birds Chill When Temps Reach Triple Digits
During the day’s peak heat, birds like our cardinal friend tend to lower their activity levels and keep their chirping to a minimum. They typically engage in foraging during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening, to conserve energy and find moments of rest.
Seeking refuge in shady spots like tree branches, bushes, or shaded roosts is also common for birds during the daytime.
As caretakers of our avian friends, we can significantly support them during the hot summer months. One way to do this is by creating a garden filled with various native trees, shrubs, and ground cover, providing them with a cool and comfortable habitat.
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Taking a Break from the Heat
It’s important to remember that birds, like us, need a break from the heat.
Providing shade for their nest boxes can be a thoughtful gesture. Additionally, offering a clean birdbath or a slowly dripping spigot can be a great way to help birds stay cool and hydrated.
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Birds will likely appreciate the opportunity to splash around or take a refreshing drink, especially if the water is cooler than the surrounding air temperature. And what better way to enjoy a fun visit from your backyard friends and to feel a part of their world!
If you enjoyed reading this story, we’d be grateful if you could support us by subscribing to our website and following our YouTube channel. We regularly post amazing videos of birds on our channel. We also have an Etsy shop where we offer a variety of handmade gifts inspired by birds and nature. Every purchase you make significantly supports bird and wildlife organizations, like Christine’s Critters, a birds of prey wildlife rehabilitator in Connecticut. Your support makes a real difference.
