Whilst the heatwaves are coming and going across the UK, the reality is that we will have many more extreme-weather periods in the months and years ahead due to climate change. So while there is a real danger to wildlife in times of drought and dryness, it can also be a chance for us to make sure life continues in abundance.

So what can we do to ensure nature has a chance in these dry and hot times? Here are some of our top actions for wildlife.

1. Make sure you have a supply of water for birds and insects. Water stress is one of the biggest killers of wildlife during drought. Put a dish of water out and you will help to keep all kinds of wildlife hydrated. Insects, small mammals, birds and even badgers, foxes and deer will benefit. Putting a stone in a plant saucer will help bees to perch and drink without drowning.
   
2. Don’t forget to continue to supply food for wildlife. Drought can mean that grains dry up faster and insect numbers reduce, so wildlife relies on us for extra support. Hedgehogs struggle to find invertebrates when the ground is dry, as worms move deeper down. Why not put out some hedgehog food too? Make sure it’s from a reputable source like the RSPB shop.
   
3. Avoid cutting your grass. Keeping grass long will help retain moisture, provide a source of shelter for insects and mammals and keep the topsoil from blowing away.
   
4. Keep your bushes unpruned. Creating shaded areas will help reduce your garden’s temperature, slowing the effects of drought.
   
5. Make sure you keep fruit trees well watered – with a can not a hose. Don’t waste water trying to keep grass alive – instead, focus your attention on flowering and fruiting species. This will help to keep a food source for pollinating insects and for birds and other animals.
   
6. Adding mulch around trees, shrubs, and plants in your garden helps retain soil moisture, reduces watering needs during drought and improves soil health. Use organic mulch like grass cuttings, wood chips or straw, spread two to three inches deep and avoid direct contact with plant stems.
   

We hope these top tips will help to create a resilient landscape in these challenging times. 

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