Households urged to move bird feeders immediately to one secure place

Britain’s blistering weather means gardeners need to keep an eye on birds – otherwise they risk overheating and potentially dying.

While many Brits have been taking advantage of the recent heatwave and abundant sunshine, the weather hasn’t been good news for everyone. Some creatures, such as birds, can struggle when the mercury starts to surge. Unlike humans, birds don’t have sweat glands, which makes it more difficult for them to cool down. Instead, they use methods like panting to help regulate their temperature.

In extreme cases, this can lead to heat stress, which can cause them to lose balance and become disoriented. In some instances, it can be fatal.

READ MORE: UK households warned to check on blackbirds when they enter your garden

Fortunately, there are some steps that garden-owners can take to help these feathery creatures survive the heat. One easy way to keep them cool is by moving your bird feeder away from direct sunlight.

Chirp Nature Center advises: “If they’re not already there, move your bird feeders to a shady locale, like under your eaves, near a bush, or on a tree branch. Not only will this give hungry birds a place to cool down and feed, but it will keep your bird seed dry from those summer showers."

They also recommend that you “try placing your bird feeders near trees or plants in your backyard”, given that these are natural shelters that birds seek out away from the sun.

Equally, you should also try opting for bird feeders with roofs. This is because they also have a cooling effect on birds, with the added benefit of keeping bird seed protected from the elements.

Another issue gardeners need to be on the lookout for in hot, humid weather is the build-up of mould in bird feeders. Mould thrives in damp conditions, which means these spaces could provide ideal growing conditions for the fungus.

To avoid this happening, Chirp Nature Center recommends cleaning bird feeders before every refill. They also suggest filling feeders halfway to remind you to clean them more often.

You should also take care to check your feeders for mouldy seed. If you discover the fungus growing on the food, make sure you discard it immediately.

Once you’ve thrown out the spoiled seed, you should clean your feeder thoroughly. Then allow it to dry before refilling it with fresh bird seed. The same applies to water bowls where birds often perch, drink and wash.

Another reason why it's a good idea to keep bird feeders in a shaded location is to prevent popular bird foods, like suet, from melting. Alternatively, you can also purchase no-melt suet, which will stay solid in high temperatures.