How to Support Garden Birds in Hot Weather

As temperatures rise, many of us are reaching for the sunscreen and a cold drink – but what about the birds? Hot, dry weather can be hard on wildlife, and birds in particular benefit from a little extra help during the summer months.

Here’s how to support birds in hot weather, with practical tips that can make a real difference.

Do birds feel the heat like we do? Are they warm-blooded?

Yes – birds are warm-blooded animals, just like us. That means they need to maintain a constant body temperature, regardless of the weather. In winter, they fluff up their feathers to trap air and keep warm, often huddling together for extra insulation. But in summer, they don’t have the same cooling mechanisms we do. Birds can’t sweat or pant like dogs to release heat.

Instead, birds rely on shade, water and limiting their activity during the hottest parts of the day. You might see them perching with wings slightly open or their beaks parted – both are ways to try and cool down. Providing water and shaded feeding spots can really help.

Why aren’t birds visiting my garden in the heat?

If your feeders suddenly seem quiet, don’t panic – the birds haven’t disappeared. In summer, two things often happen at once: the heat makes birds less active during the day, and many species begin to moult.

Moulting is when birds shed and regrow their feathers. It’s an energy-intensive process and can leave them looking a bit scruffy and reluctant to fly. Combined with high temperatures, it often means birds keep a lower profile and feed more quickly or less frequently. They’re still around, just taking it easy.

Water is vital (and not just for drinking)

Birds don’t just need water to drink. Bathing helps them cool down and keep their feathers in good condition, which is especially important at the moment during the moult. If you can offer a clean, shallow water source, you’ll be helping them in more ways than one.

You don’t need a fancy bird bath. A plant saucer, shallow bowl or upturned bin lid will do the job, as long as it’s stable and cleaned regularly. Add a few small stones to help birds judge the depth and provide somewhere to perch (that will help the butterflies access the water too).

Try placing it in the shade if possible, and top it up daily – water evaporates quickly in hot weather, and a dry bird bath won’t help anyone.

What should I feed birds in hot weather?

Birds still need energy during summer, especially while raising fledglings and going through the moult. But the way you feed can make a difference.

Feed little and often to stop food from spoiling.

Choose a good-quality summer seed mix with no cheap filler. You don't want the birds spending too much time at the feeder pecking through seed husks or kicking out the foods that won't benefit them as much.

Avoid dried mealworms – they can cause dehydration in fledglings.

Scatter small amounts of seed in shaded areas or under shrubs.

Birds are quick to learn where food is, so even if they don’t feed as often, they’ll remember where to return when they need it.

Should I clean feeders and bird baths more often in summer?

Yes, and warm weather makes hygiene even more important. Bacteria and fungi thrive in heat, and shared feeding or water spots can spread disease.

Clean bird baths and feeders at least once a week using hot, soapy water or a mild disinfectant. Rinse thoroughly and allow them to dry before refilling. If you notice seed clumping or the water going green, it’s a sign it needs cleaning more often. Read more about how to clean your feeders in our blog.

Do feeders need to be moved in hot weather?

If your feeders are in full sun all day, it’s worth shifting them to a shadier spot – even just for the summer months. Feeding in direct sunlight can be uncomfortable for birds and speeds up spoilage. A shady corner near cover gives birds somewhere to feed quickly and safely, which is especially useful when they’re feeling more cautious.

What else can I do to support birds in the heat?

You don’t need to overhaul your garden – small changes are enough.

Let part of your lawn grow longer to give birds and insects a cooler, sheltered space.

Avoid cutting back hedges and shrubs during heatwaves, as birds may be sheltering there.

Add a second water dish in a quiet spot away from feeders to reduce crowding.

Your garden can be a lifeline in the heat

Summer is a quieter time for birdwatching, but your feeders and water sources are still being used, even if it’s not as obvious. Birds are clever, adaptable and attuned to the landscape – if your garden offers food, water and a bit of shelter, they’ll know it’s a place worth returning to.

If you’re running low on food, our seasonal blend is designed for this time of year – no dried mealworms, just a nutritious, high-quality mix to support adult birds and fledglings alike. You can order in 1.75kg, 4.5kg, 6kg or 12.75kg bags depending on how many visitors you’re catering for.

Take a moment this week to top up the feeders, refresh the water, and enjoy whatever visitors turn up – even if they’re a little more low-key this month. Every small action helps.