UK heatwave triggers wildlife and bird‑care appeals

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) has renewed its call for the public to support wildlife amid a new heatwave across Britain. The charity noted its busiest day on 24 June, receiving 4,135 calls about animal welfare. Wildlife expert Rebecca Machin said, “The last heatwave showed just how quickly extreme temperatures can affect animals, including wildlife.” The RSPCA advises leaving shallow water dishes, providing garden shade, offering wet pet food for hedgehogs and badgers, and keeping dogs under control during early mornings and evenings.

Separately, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) and bird specialists urge gardeners to supply fresh water for birds, recommending shallow trays, ponds or bird baths positioned away from cover. Wildlife expert Sean McMenemy warned that “warm, stagnant bird baths can become breeding grounds for disease” and stressed regular cleaning. Additional guidance includes avoiding pesticides, delaying hedge trimming until after the breeding season, and reducing mains‑water use to protect wetland habitats.