Heatwave pushes house martin rescue teams to limit in Germany

A prolonged heatwave in Germany has caused many young house martins (Mauersegler) to abandon their nests and fall onto hot surfaces. Volunteers and the bird‑rescue organization Mauerseglerhilfe Apus have been responding to numerous calls, transporting weakened birds to care stations in Heidelberg and Frankfurt.

The surge in casualties has stretched the group's capacity, leading to a temporary intake freeze. The organization now directs rescuers to alternative wildlife‑help hotlines and local intake maps, while urging the public to follow a step‑by‑step guide for safely handling found birds.

Authorities have been unable to provide consistent assistance, with police initially promising a wildlife officer but later advising that the birds be released. The situation highlights the challenges wildlife groups face during extreme temperatures.