With the hottest weather of the year upon us, many people are torn between enjoying the sun and remaining indoors trying to keep cool in any way that they can.
But it's not just us humans who are affected by soaring temperatures, with the North East set to be hotter than Athens, Florida and Sao Paulo this week. And the Northumberland Wildlife Trust is urging people not to let wildlife wilt in the 'extreme heat.'
As well as our beloved pets, the region's wild animals may need a bit of support during the hot weather, with natural sources of water such as streams and ponds starting to dry up. All wildlife needs drinking water during at this time, while birds and mammals also need it to remove dirt and grit from their fur and feathers: with both prone to suffering from heat stroke and over exertion.
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The charity is encouraging those who have a garden and whose budgets allow to put a bird bath or shallow dish in their garden or back yard and keep it topped up with water. A saucer is said to be better for birds who may fall into a deeper container and get into difficulties.
Drier weather conditions make worms tunnel further into the soil, becoming scarce for wildlife that usually feasts on them such as blackbirds, robins, hedgehogs and frogs. If you are able to leave out additional food, that can help with items such as dog or cat for regularly taken by blackbirds to feed their chicks.
Cooked pasta, boiled potatoes, grated cheese and unsalted bacon rind are also suitable along with fat and suet balls. For those with bird feeders, they can be filled with fruit, raisings, seeds, grains and oats and placed in shaded areas to help keep birds cooler - if you don't have a bird feeder, they are inexpensive to buy at supermarkets.
Those tending their gardens can also help - regularly watered plants are a lifeline for bees and butterflies as many wild plants start to die in hot and dry weather, making gardens and well-watered plants even more important. Leaving out saucers of sugary water for bees and butterflies can help as the temperatures rise, while piles of dead wood, logs or leaves should be kept damp for insects.
Alice McCourt, Northumberland Wildlife Trust Conservation Officer, said: "Don’t forget wildlife when the weather turns hot. As humans, we tend to look after ourselves first reaching for water, ice lollies, sun cream and shaded areas and forget that birds, mammals and insects need a helping hand.
"A few simple little things such as water, shelter and a bit of extra food will really help. Provide that and you will have a summer filled which wildlife which you can sit back and watch - much cheaper than scrolling through a phone and so much better for your health and well-being."
What are you doing to keep wildlife safe during the heatwave? Let us know!
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