Rescue shade and a sip of water: how we can help animals in the heat

      Wild animals have natural mechanisms for adapting to high temperatures and do not rely on humans for finding shelter or water. To avoid overheating, they shift their activity to the morning and evening hours, and during the peak of the day, they hide in shady ravines or under dense tree canopies, where the air is significantly cooler. According to specialists from the State Committee of the Republic of Tatarstan for Biological Resources, due to the abundance of greenery and water bodies in natural areas, animals and birds easily endure the heat: predators go hunting, herbivores head to drink, and moisture-loving insects and reptiles hide in the cool grass. Animals with black coloration, such as crows, are forced to seek refuge in dense shade, as their plumage absorbs sunlight more quickly. However, in the city, our smaller brothers endure high temperatures much more severely than humans and need our help. The simplest thing everyone can do is to place containers of water near entrances, shops, or on balconies, as birds need to drink at least twice a day and bathe to clean themselves of parasites and dirt. In the heat, birds and animals try to eat less and rest more, conserving energy, but sometimes instincts drive them to remarkable care: for example, white storks bring water in their beaks to cool and hydrate their chicks. Therefore, if you see an animal suffering from the heat, it is enough to create a saving shade for it or set up a water source — this can be a lifesaver for it on a scorching day.