As you may have noticed, we're in for a scorcher this year, yet it's not just us humans who are struggling in the heat.
Garden birds can find it difficult to stay cool and hydrated during prolonged warm weather, especially when natural sources of water and food begin to dry up.
While a clean bird bath filled with fresh water is one of the best ways to support wildlife, experts say that offering certain fruits can also provide a welcome boost. Rich in moisture as well as natural sugars, fruit can help birds stay hydrated while providing extra energy during hot spells – these are the ones to pick up next time you're at the supermarket.
The 2 fruits to leave out
Watermelon
As well as being delicious, watermelon is made up of more than 90% water, making it an excellent choice for birds on hot days. Simply place a few small chunks on a bird table or shallow dish, ensuring any large seeds are removed if possible.
Many common garden visitors, including blackbirds, robins and starlings, will happily peck at the juicy flesh. The high water content helps birds top up their hydration, while the natural sweetness provides a quick source of energy.
Grapes
Grapes are another fruit that can be especially helpful in warm weather. They contain plenty of water and are easy for many birds to eat.
For smaller birds, it's best to cut grapes in half or into smaller pieces to make them easier to manage and reduce any choking risk. Place them somewhere shaded if possible, as fruit can spoil quickly in high temperatures.
A few simple tips
If you're putting fruit out for birds, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Replace fruit daily, especially during hot weather, as it can ferment or attract insects.
- Remove any uneaten pieces at the end of the day.
- Always provide a shallow dish of fresh, clean water alongside food.
- Position food away from areas where cats may be able to ambush feeding birds.
Other ways to help birds in hot weather
During periods of high temperatures, fresh water is even more important than food. Refill bird baths every day, clean them regularly to prevent the spread of disease, and consider placing a shallow dish of water on the ground for species that prefer drinking there.
Keeping parts of your garden wild and biodiverse can also make a difference. Shrubs, hedges and mature trees provide valuable shade and shelter, helping birds escape the hottest part of the day.
By making just a few small changes, such as leaving out fresh watermelon and grapes alongside clean water, you can help your garden's feathered friends stay healthy and comfortable throughout the summer.
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Maddy is the Homes Writer at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she can be found writing about the latest interiors news and collating inspiring trend edits. She has previously worked for Good Housekeeping, Prima and Red, and has an MA in Classics and Ancient History from the University of Manchester and a BA in English Literature and Creative Writing from the University of East Anglia, where she was the editor-in-chief of the student newspaper.
