Surjit Singh Flora
With the onset of summer, it is crucial to prepare for heat waves, periods characterized by significantly elevated temperatures. Such factors can pose significant risks, particularly for populations that are already vulnerable, such as the elderly and individuals with health conditions. Extended exposure to elevated temperatures can result in heat-related health issues such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. We often use water to help lessen the effects of heat. Sometimes, people drink this water, and other times, they use it to take a bath. Additionally, air conditioning is employed to alleviate the stifling heat and foster a more pleasant atmosphere. Indeed! Heat waves are harming not just humans, but also little birds and animals. Everyone is experiencing the consequences of the excessive heat. A significant number of avian species succumb annually due to insufficient water resources and the intense heat of summer. The heat also bothers the loudest birds. While we can rely on our common sense to protect ourselves from the heat, these birds lack that capability. If we care about these birds and put up any effort, we can help them stay cool. We may be able to save birds from dying in the heat by giving them water and shelter when they come to our house or nearby. Make shallow birdbaths with clean water to help birds stay cool and hydrated. Birds drink water and eat food to stay hydrated. Many avian species that consume insects derive a significant portion of their hydration from their diet. On the other hand, birds that consume seeds require more water. Small birds drink from ponds and rivers, whereas birds in deep forests consume tree drips. There aren’t many ponds, streams, or trees that can provide these birds water. These are the reasons why birds die more in the summer. With our small gene pool, we must now protect these birds from heatstroke. These avian species thrive in environments where water is present in gardens, orchards, and courtyards. Be aware that plastic or steel containers can heat up in sunlight, so it is advisable not to store water in them.
Storing water in earthen pots is optimal, as they effectively maintain a cool temperature. To prevent birds from becoming sick, you should clean these containers often. Put these water pots in places where birds will go so that your teammates can work better. Change the water every day and clean the water pot every two days. Clean up any green algae on the surface quickly. It is critical to have clean water. Birds that exert effort are rewarded with sustenance, yet during the summer months, they seek to take flight to maintain a comfortable temperature. The more they fly, the more water they need, and the more likely they are to have heatstroke.
If you provide them with food and water, they will not wander as much. Summertime foods include sunflower seeds, fruits, bread, millet, rice, and porridge. Controlling avian metabolism and providing energy to cope with high temperatures is critical in the summer.
It’s not just the heatwaves; felines and canines also prey on these birds for sustenance, so it’s advisable to keep cats and dogs away from birds! Your pet cat may like being outdoors, but cats permitted to roam freely kill billions of birds each year. Fledglings, who spend a lot of time on the ground and are unable to flee or fly quickly, are especially vulnerable to these predatory tendencies. Ensure that your dogs are secured on leashes and that your pets remain indoors. A bell attached to your cat’s collar serves as a warning signal for birds, thereby safeguarding them from potential predation.
We also make it hard for these birds to find water today. Our work has polluted river flows, sped up deforestation, made huts smaller, and made mud houses permanent. People often place their own needs ahead of those of these defenseless creatures. We have to provide these poor birds with food and drink this summer if they are paying for our crimes.
Many of the aforementioned examples require a heightened sense of responsibility and attention to detail to effect meaningful change. Birds keep insects in check, fertilize plants that grow fruits and vegetables, move seeds around and drop them off, and sing to make even the saddest heart feel better. We need to be better caretakers and take care of these creatures so they can keep singing and making us.
(The writer is a freelance writer and journalist who lives in Brampton)