As Europe experiences extreme heat, birds and other wildlife are also struggling to cope with the high temperatures and humidity. Birds, in particular, play a crucial role in ecosystems, providing services like pollinating flowers, controlling pests, and serving as early warning systems.

How Birds Cope with Heat

According to David Bird, McGill University emeritus professor of wildlife biology, birds have adapted to deal with prolonged periods of heat. They have a higher body temperature than mammals and can adjust their feathers or increase airflow to stay cool. However, birds have a maximum level of heat they can withstand, and prolonged intense heat can push them toward their maximum heat tolerances, putting them at risk of heat illness or death.

Some species of birds will “gape” or open their beaks and pant to cool off, while others will flutter the pouch skin on their necks, known as “gular fluttering.” Birds also seek out shade and dip in birdbaths, fountains, and shallow ponds to lower their body temperatures.

Helping Wildlife in the Heat

Experts offer a few tips for helping birds and other wildlife affected by the heat. In the short term, people can set up shallow water sources in safe spots, away from predators. They can also fill bird feeders, providing an easy food source for birds that might be avoiding foraging for food in the hot sun.

For other wildlife, it’s often best not to intervene, as local wildlife rehabilitators are the best resource to contact if a sick or injured animal is found. Experts know how to help wildlife and provide the necessary care.

Original reporting: WPBF West Palm Beach — read the source article.