Heat and drought put young wildlife at risk

Heat and drought are increasingly threatening wild animals, especially young birds and small rodents, ORF reported. The animal welfare organisation Pfotenhilfe is urging people to set up water stations because natural water sources are drying up.

Young birds are increasingly being found on the ground after becoming weak or overheated and falling from their nests. Animal welfare workers at Pfotenhilfe Lochen, an organisation in neighbouring Braunau in Upper Austria, are also observing the problem.

Young animals such as birds and squirrels normally huddle closely together in their nests to keep warm. But at temperatures of up to 40 degrees Celsius, this protection can become a problem, said Johanna Stadler, managing director of Pfotenhilfe Lochen. The animals may move around more and spread their wings to escape the heat, which can push weaker siblings out of the nest.

Hedgehogs, squirrels and insects are finding little water in many places as small streams and natural water sources dry up. Shallow bowls of fresh water in gardens, on window sills, terraces or balconies can help. The bowls should be arranged so that small animals can climb out after drinking, Stadler said.

She also advised people to contact organisations such as Pfotenhilfe before intervening when they find wildlife that appears to need help. A short video can help experts assess the situation. Acting too quickly can destroy family groups, she said.

Deer are also adapting their behaviour to the continuing heat. During midday, they retreat to shaded woodland or densely vegetated field edges to avoid direct sunlight. Animal welfare workers are asking walkers and dog owners to respect these refuge areas.

Dogs running loose can unnecessarily frighten deer and force them to flee in the heat. According to the hunting community, however, the animals’ water supply is currently still secure.