Birds in Hot Weather: How to Help Them Survive Dehydration When the thermometer rises above thirty degrees, we seek refuge in air conditioners, cool drinks, and shady parks. But what about those who have neither an air conditioner nor a refrigerator, nor even the chance to simply seek shade? Birds are among the most vulnerable creatures during the summer heat. They can't unbutton a coat or drink a glass of tap water. Their bodies are complex thermal machines that work to the limit in the heat. While humans can consciously drink more water, birds rely on instincts and chance. But we, humans, can help. And it doesn't require great effort, yet brings tremendous results. How Birds Regulate Body Temperature Birds are endothermic creatures, and their body temperature is usually higher than that of humans: for passerines, it reaches 40–42 degrees. In the heat, they need to release excess heat to avoid overheating. The main cooling mechanism in them is evaporation. However, unlike humans, birds almost do not sweat: they lack sweat glands. Instead, they use respiration: rapid, superficial breathing with the beak open, reminiscent of a dog's "breathing out". This is called polyphagy — rapid ventilation of air through the lungs with evaporation of moisture from the mucous membranes. However, this mechanism leads to colossal water loss. In severe heat, a bird may lose up to 5% of its body weight per hour due to evaporation. And if water reserves are not replenished, dehydration sets in — a condition that quickly becomes critical. That's why we often see birds with their beaks open, sitting motionless in the shade on hot days. It's not laziness — it's a struggle for life. Where Birds Get Water in the City In the natural environment, birds have many sources of water: streams, puddles, dew on grass, raindrops on leaves. But in cities, this natural balance is disrupted. Asphalt and concrete heat up to 60–70 degrees and almost do not absorb moisture. Puddles evaporate quickly ... Read more