As the winter has passed and warmer weather has arrived, the responsibilities for some pet owners will be increased significantly, particularly for bird owners. Like humans, these birds also want to enjoy the charm of the changing seasons to the fullest. However, every season has different challenges, and you need to know about them.
During the summers, don't forget to take safety precautions for your lovely birds that may bring damage to their health. Although it is the best season for wild birds to enjoy and make the most of the weather, other birds need extra care, and here come the owner's additional efforts to be performed. From feather feeders to the baby birds flickering out of their nests for the first time this season, it will be a new wave to cross with extra struggles.
On the other hand, summers bring many threats to birds for their survival. However, they can feel a little unburdened if their diligent owners take some steps to make their backyards a little safer option for every bird visitor. So, let's take a plunge and see how summers can be a favorite season for your lovely birds. Check this guide out and make the most out of it.
The Dangers for Birds in Summers
Before taking precautions, it is better to know the possible threats to your birds and act accordingly. As summers are believed to be fun and free for all birds, there is much vulnerability, mainly for birds left in the wild. Let's have a look at some of the possible dangers that birds might face:
An increased number of starving predators may hunt their own kind
Thunderstorms, tornados, and floods can be a danger to the bird nests and might collapse them within no time
Threats of a wildfire that may destroy habitat, nesting areas, and food resources of birds
Extremely high heat interrupts food production and reduces water resources
Due to birdbaths in dirty places, various diseases spread and cause viruses in birds
Birdhouses with no open ventilation options or safety features to shelter birds in their nests
Extreme disturbance can be noticed due to human events, such as camping, fireworks, and staying near their nests
Even though there are never-ending hazards for birds to face during summers, it is also easy if the owners take proper steps to keep their birds safe from all threatening activities
Open Doors in Summers Are a Danger for Bird Owners
As summer is the most awaited season for many people in cold areas, many homeowners plan their vacations or road trips this season. Whether you have a small backyard party or load up your car with trip necessities, the main doors are always left open due to the continuous hustle and bustle. However, these open doors threaten the bird owners, especially if you prefer to let your bird roam free and perch up on a ledge.
These accidental hazards are supposed to happen, especially in summers when everyone seems busy while enjoying the weather. It is mainly heard from the bird owners when they plan to have barbecue parties in their backyard where the doors are left open and find a raccoon making its way to the house, thus endangering their birds.
Additionally, flies come with numerous viruses, such as West Nile Virus, which can be spread through mosquito bites.
Safety Tips for Bird Owners in the Summer
To keep your bird safe and healthy in the summer, you must follow a few steps to create a healthy bird environment. For that purpose, here is a list that you can follow.
1. Nutritious Food for Birds
An essential thing to offer your birds is excellent food treats during summers as they need more energy to fly and move around. Also, it is necessary for the growing birds at an early age. You can give your bird food rich in calories, such as mealworms, sunflower seeds, no-melt suet, fruits, nectar, jelly, and nuts. However, if you offer jelly, ensure you provide them in small quantities to stay fresh and not get rotten before the bird fills up on them.
2. Clean Baths and Feeders
Make a habit of cleaning bird feeders and baths daily, particularly in the summers. You can clean the seed feeders weekly and nectar and other feeders after every 2 to 3 days. Use only very diluted bleach water (or just vinegar and water!) for disinfecting purposes, and clean the refilled water of the birdcage. Remember to clean the under space where your bird spends the whole time sitting there as there will be rotten hulls and stored feces which results in various diseases.
3. Use Less Harsh Chemicals
These cleaning habits with fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides should be reduced during the summer so birds can stay safe from dangerous or poisonous chemicals. In addition, there are other hidden potential leaks from car engines, pools, or even from stored chemicals in the backyard that can spread in the garden without knowing.
4. Keep Stray and Feral Cats Away
Stray cats severely threaten young birds with no advanced flight capabilities. If you already have a pet cat, build fencing, barriers, or other protective gadgets to minimize the risks of approaching birdcages.
5. A Big Responsibility for Children
Teach your child to take care of your birds and be careful with them. Children have the power of being extra cautious with a sense of responsibility. Hence, if your bird is your child's friend, then congratulations. Your bird is unlikely to face any trouble. On the contrary, they will look after them more often and keep an eye on the bird's cage throughout the day, and if your bird is in trouble or feeling sick, they will be the first to tell you about it.
6. Know Your Bird's Needs
In addition, you may create a harmless environment for your lovely bird in warm weather so that your bird isn't intimidated or uncomfortable. Follow your bird's signs that it might give you when it is distressed or sick, and treat them accordingly.
In conclusion, we hope you have enjoyed our short guide on safety tips for Long Island bird owners in the summers. By keeping these tips in mind and following them, you won't run into any problems or hurdles. Moreover, your birds will happily fly about, enjoying the delightful weather.