Providing essential water for wildlife is not just a gesture of kindness, it’s crucial for taking care of our natural habitats.
As temperatures rise during the summer months, animals heavily rely on finding water to survive. By taking simple steps to create accessible water sources in your outdoor space, you can make a big difference in supporting local biodiversity. Whether you have a sprawling garden or a smaller outdoor space, there are practical ways to ensure wildlife has the water it needs to thrive!
Sean McMenemy, passionate nature expert and founder of Ark Wildlife, shares his advice on how to help wildlife stay hydrated.
Add a bird bath
Bird baths are more than just a pretty garden decoration. They’re an excellent way to attract a variety of bird species to your garden, as well as other wildlife. Every species needs water to survive, after all! When choosing your bird bath, go for one that is large enough for birds to spread their wings but shallow enough for them to stand in the middle – a depth of 5-8cm is ideal for most species.
The Oasis Bird Bath & Water Drinker is a good option as it’s designed for all creatures, no matter how large or small, as is the Universal Wildlife Water Drinker. The simple act of adding bath will benefit all kinds of birds and insects. Just make sure you regularly clean the bath with a veterinary approved disinfectant to prevent algae build up and harmful bacteria. And remember to replenish with fresh water every few days.
Create shade and keep it fresh
Shade is a lifesaver during the warmer months. By positioning bird baths and water dishes in shaded areas, you can prevent them from heating up and evaporating quickly. Natural shading from trees and shrubs is ideal. Not only does it help keep the area nice and cool, but it will also provide protection so that visiting guests feel more secure and can enjoy the water in peace.
If you don’t have the perfect shady spot, don’t fret! Providing water in the sunshine is better than no water at all – just remember to top it up every few hours! On those extra hot days, you could even pop in a few ice cubes to keep water cool and refreshing for your garden visitors. Don’t forget that our small feathered friends like to be able to see any approaching predators so they can make a speedy escape, so make sure they have a good view of their surrounding area wherever you place your bird bath.
Set up multiple sources
Having multiple water sources in your garden is a great way to cater to various species, ensuring everyone gets a refreshing drink. Place water sources at assorted heights to suit different types of wildlife. Ground level dishes are perfect for mammals like hedgehogs and rabbits, while elevated bird baths are ideal for birds and insects.
Spreading them out across your garden to prevent overcrowding and give shy creatures a chance to drink without feeling threatened. Safety is important too. Make sure dishes on the ground are shallow with gently sloping sides or pebbled bottoms so small animals can easily climb out. Using a variety of containers such as dishes, saucers and even puddling areas for butterflies will attract a diverse range of wildlife to your garden.
Make your own hydration station
Feeling crafty? You can make your own mini hydration station which will be enjoyed by all sorts of wonderful wildlife. To do this, you can use an old plant pot or a shallow dish, just be sure the pot doesn’t have a drainage hole. If it does, line it with some pond liner to keep the water inside. Place large pebbles and stones within the pot to create a sturdy ground for wildlife to perch on and access the water.
Fill the pot with water, making sure the tops of the pebbles and stones are exposed so birds and visiting insects can safely get to the water. Position your hydration station in a cool and shaded space where the birds can easily find it. Just make sure to replace the water regularly and clean the pot thoroughly.
