Here are 5 ways to give wildlife a helping hand in the heat
As summer temperatures continue to rise across the country, wildlife is feeling the strain. Dehydration, heatstroke, and food shortages are becoming serious threats for many species during heatwaves. Experts say that even small, everyday actions from people at home can help wild animals stay cool and survive. Whether you live in a city, suburb, or rural area, there are simple ways to make your outdoor space more wildlife-friendly during periods of extreme heat.
Heatwaves put enormous pressure on animals. Birds struggle to find water to drink or bathe in. Some may even leave their nests too early if temperatures get dangerously high. Mammals like squirrels and raccoons look for shade and water, but often come up short, especially when the ground becomes too dry to forage. Insects such as bees and butterflies suffer too—flowers dry up, nectar disappears, and many overheat in the exposed sun.
Urban areas can be especially harsh due to the “heat island” effect—concrete, asphalt, and a lack of vegetation all trap heat, making cities several degrees warmer than surrounding natural spaces. And with climate change driving more frequent and intense heatwaves, wildlife will likely face these conditions more often.
When natural resources like shade and water are limited, animals depend on the help of humans more than ever. Offering small refuges in your yard or garden can have a big impact. It’s not just a kind gesture—it helps protect biodiversity, which benefits ecosystems and people alike. Every small action adds up.
Here are five easy and effective ways to give wildlife a helping hand during hot weather:
- Provide Fresh Water Sources
Leave shallow bowls or dishes of clean water in shaded spots around your yard or balcony. Use stones or marbles to give bees and birds a safe place to perch while they drink. Change the water regularly to prevent the spread of mosquitoes and disease. Birdbaths, ground-level dishes for hedgehogs, or small puddles for bees can all be lifesavers during a heatwave. - Create and Maintain Shaded Areas
Avoid trimming back hedges or tall grasses during the hottest parts of summer. These natural shelters offer essential cover for animals trying to escape the heat. Planting native trees and shrubs is a great long-term way to build up shaded areas. Even a simple tarp, umbrella, or cardboard box propped up in a corner of your yard can give animals a much-needed break from the sun. - Offer Supplementary Food (with caution)
Hot weather can make it harder for animals to find food, especially when flowers wilt and insects disappear. Keeping bird feeders stocked with seeds or suet can provide birds with the energy they need. For hedgehogs, a dish of wet cat or dog food can be helpful (never milk). Just be careful—never leave out food that spoils quickly or isn’t meant for wildlife. Only feed animals when you know what’s safe for them. - Be Mindful and Observe from a Distance
If you see animals resting in your garden or taking a drink, give them space. Don’t try to touch or move them unless they are clearly sick or injured. Signs of heat distress include heavy panting, drooping wings, or a lack of response to nearby movement. If you’re concerned, contact a local wildlife rescue or rehab center for advice before intervening. - Conserve Water in Your Garden
Using mulch around your plants helps the soil stay moist, which creates cooler, more comfortable microclimates for insects and small mammals. Focus on growing native, drought-tolerant plants and use collected rainwater when possible. A healthy, hydrated garden supports more life and stays resilient during extreme heat.
As temperatures climb, more animals will be looking for safe places to rest, drink, and cool off. The good news is that everyone can help. Whether it’s placing a bowl of water outside your window or letting a patch of your yard grow wild, small changes make a big difference. Share these tips with your neighbours, friends, and family—because helping wildlife beat the heat is something we can all do together.
