RSPB: put water out for the birds

With scorching temperatures forecast all week, garden birds such as robins, blue tits and blackbirds could be left struggling to find sources of water.

Unlike mammals, birds don’t have sweat glands, but they do lose water through respiration and droppings.

Birds need fresh water daily, not only to drink but also for bathing, an essential part of their daily routine that helps to keep their feathers warm and waterproof, and in good condition.

The RSPB is asking people to help by putting out supplies of fresh water in their gardens.

Chris Calow, RSPB Wildlife Adviser, said: “Turning your outside space into a home for nature by doing simple things like topping up your birdbath, creating a makeshift pond in a washing-up bowl or putting down a saucer of water could offer a lifeline to our much-loved birds that are already fighting decline.”