Overview
- Conservation organizations including Nabu and the Landesstiftung urged people to set out bird baths after forecasts showed multi-day heat with temperatures above 30°C in parts of Germany.
- They recommend shallow bowls 2–10 cm deep with a slightly rough base and a stone in the middle so birds can drink, bathe and perch safely.
- Place baths near hedges or bushes and out of easy reach of cats so birds can access water without increased predation risk.
- Change the water once or twice daily and clean containers with a brush and boiling water to prevent Salmonella and other pathogens from spreading.
- Experts note birds cannot sweat and lose heat only through unfeathered parts or panting, so easy access to fresh water helps especially young and small species and reduces heat stress.