Australia's hot summers can be challenging for native birds. As temperatures soar, food and water sources can become scarce, and birds are vulnerable to heat stress. Thankfully, there are simple steps you can take to help support local bird populations during these tough conditions. In this blog, we'll explore effective ways to care for native birds during the scorching Australian summers.
1. Provide Fresh Water
One of the most important things you can do for native birds during summer is to ensure they have access to clean, fresh water. Birds need water not only for drinking but also for bathing to cool down and maintain their feathers. Here's how to set up a bird-friendly water station:
- Birdbaths: Place shallow birdbaths around your yard, in both sunny and shaded spots. Regularly refill them with fresh water to prevent stagnation and ensure they remain cool.
- Shallow Dishes: If you don't have a birdbath, shallow dishes filled with water can work just as well. Ensure they're easy for small birds to access.
- Keep it Clean: Clean birdbaths and dishes regularly to prevent bacteria or algae from forming.
Remember, placing water in multiple locations increases the chance that different species will visit.
2. Offer Shade and Shelter
During the heat of the day, birds seek out shady spots to escape direct sunlight. You can create shaded areas in your yard with native plants, trees, and shrubs that provide cool resting spots for birds:
- Native Trees and Bushes: Plant native species like eucalypts, bottlebrushes, and grevilleas that provide not only shade but also food in the form of nectar, seeds, and insects.
- Artificial Shade: You can also create temporary shaded areas using tarps or umbrellas if you're lacking tree cover. Place them near water sources or feeding areas to give birds a break from the sun.
3. Supply Food Sources
As summer heat intensifies, natural food sources such as insects, fruits, and seeds can become limited. Offering supplementary food can help support birds through the lean months:
- Native Seeds and Fruits: Supply fresh fruits like apples, bananas, or berries, cut into small pieces. Additionally, native seed mixes can attract parrots, finches, and other seed-eating birds.
- Live Insects: Offer mealworms, crickets, or other insects to insect-eating birds such as magpies and kookaburras.
- Avoid Processed Foods: It's important to avoid feeding birds processed foods like bread, crackers, or leftover scraps, as these can cause malnutrition and health issues.
Providing food, especially during summer, should complement birds' natural foraging rather than replace it.
4. Plant Native Flora
Encouraging birds to feed naturally in your garden is one of the best ways to support them year-round. Native plants provide food, shelter, and shade. Consider adding some of these bird-friendly plants:
- Grevilleas: Known for their vibrant flowers, grevilleas attract nectar-feeding birds like honeyeaters and lorikeets.
- Banksias and Wattles: These plants offer seeds that are a favorite for birds like cockatoos and galahs.
- Kangaroo Paw: Another favorite for nectar feeders, this iconic Australian plant will bring birds flocking.
Native flora not only helps birds find food, but it also supports the overall ecosystem, promoting insect populations that birds rely on.
5. Minimize Heat Hazards
High summer temperatures can lead to heat stress in birds, which is often fatal if not addressed. Here’s how to minimize heat risks:
- Install Birdhouses: Nesting boxes or birdhouses provide shelter during extreme temperatures and help birds escape the harsh sun.
- Check on Birds: If you notice birds sitting with their wings spread or panting, they may be suffering from heat stress. Ensure they have access to water and shade immediately.
- Minimize Artificial Heat Sources: If possible, limit the use of artificial lighting or reflective surfaces that can increase the heat in your backyard.
6. Be Mindful of Predators
During summer, both birds and predators are more active. To keep birds safe while they visit your yard:
- Keep Cats Indoors: Domestic cats are one of the biggest threats to native birds. Keeping cats indoors or in an enclosed outdoor space can protect bird populations.
- Install Bird-Friendly Fencing: If you have fencing, ensure it's designed to prevent other predators from accessing bird feeding and watering areas.
Supporting native birds during Australia's hot summers doesn't take much effort but can make a big difference in their survival. By providing fresh water, shade, shelter, and appropriate food sources, you create a welcoming haven for birds in your backyard. Plus, you'll get to enjoy their presence all year round as they thrive in the environment you've helped them adapt to. Remember, a little care can go a long way in helping our feathered friends beat the summer heat!
For more information on feeding native birds check out this blog