Helping Wildlife Survive Summer's Extremes

As the temperatures soar and storms roll in, humans aren’t the only ones feeling the pressure—our wild neighbors are struggling too.

From panting birds to overheated turtles, wild animals face serious challenges during extreme heat and unpredictable weather. Unlike us, they can’t flip on a fan or duck into air conditioning. But there are simple, meaningful ways you can help.

🐦 Leave out shallow dishes of water

Place bowls in shaded areas, and add a few stones so bees and butterflies can land safely. Change the water daily to avoid mosquitoes.

🐿 Skip the lawn chemicals

Pesticides and fertilizers can poison small mammals, birds, and pollinators. Let nature thrive naturally when possible.

🦋 Don’t prune too much

That scraggly bush or low tree limb might be someone’s only shelter from the sun—or a safe hiding spot during a thunderstorm.

🐢 Help turtles and frogs safely

Amphibians and reptiles often get stranded on hot roads or displaced during heavy rain. If it’s safe, gently move turtles across the road in the direction they were heading—never relocate them elsewhere.

🌩️ After the storm, keep an eye out

Strong winds and flooding can knock nests down, strand young animals, or trap critters in unfamiliar places. If you find one, contact a local wildlife rehabber for guidance before intervening.

Every small kindness helps. By making just a few thoughtful choices, you can turn your backyard—or even just your porch—into a refuge for the creatures weathering the storm.