how to keep my bird cool in summer

Dogs aren’t the only ones panting

Although they can’t actually pant like dogs can, birds can still pant in their own unique ways, and some even go so far as to flutter. Known more formally as “gular fluttering,” this behavior is typical of nocturnal insectivores such as whip-poor-wills and common nighthawks. Fluttering is the result of rapid, open-mouth breathing combined with rapid vibration of the wet throat membranes, which evaporatively causes moisture to escape. With each exhale, the bird releases extra heat from its body, allowing it to cool. During the hottest parts of the day, mourning doves, owls, and double-crested cormorants may also exhibit this behavior.

Taking a dip in the water

Birds stay cool by bathing or swimming, just like humans do. Who doesn’t enjoy cooling off in a lake or river on a hot day? Birds can dissipate their body heat to the cooler water surrounding them by submerging their exposed skin. After a bath, some birds spread their wings and fluff up their feathers to catch the breeze, which helps them cool off even more.

To help them control their body temperature, birds love to splash around in cool water. Place a shallow dish in your bird’s cage with just a few centimeters of water in it so it can take a bath. Alternatively, purchase a bird bath that fits over the cage. Keep the water clean by changing it regularly.

It’s crucial to keep your bird cool during the sweltering summer months. Since birds lack sweat glands, overheating poses a major risk, unlike humans. Since the majority of birds are kept in cages or aviaries, it’s critical to provide them with the summertime necessities for safety and cooling Here are our suggestions of how to do just that.

A light mist spray will help keep your bird cool. If you’re at home all day, you can do this manually with a spray bottle. Alternatively, you can install an automated mister to provide your bird with cooling relief while you’re away. It will dispense a light mist at regular intervals throughout the day.

Make sure the cage housing your bird is kept in a shaded area and not in direct sunlight. While the winter sun on the front patio may be pleasant, a bird can become seriously injured in the summer heat. Consider relocating their cage to a location where they will feel more at ease come summertime. Try a tiled room, like the bathroom, when it’s hot.

Since warm weather encourages the growth of bacteria and other parasites, give your bird’s cage a deeper cleaning during the summer. Bird food should not be left out for extended periods of time as this can encourage the growth of bacteria. Change it regularly to keep your bird safe.

FAQ

What temp is too hot for a bird?

Usually the ambient temperature is lower than the bird’s body temperature, and the bird’s metabolism produces heat to keep warm. But when the outside air rises above about 40 degrees C (104 degrees F) the bird’s metabolic heat will cause it to get too warm. So the bird needs to cool down.

How do you cool down a hot bird?

One of the best methods for birds to cool off is through a quick soak. Having moist feathers allows heat to dissipate quickly from their bodies.

Is 90 degrees too hot for a bird?

Majority of pet birds need temperature settings of between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If needed they can handle between 40 to 90 degrees. This broader range though depends on a few things. Assuming there is moving air in the room your bird can withstand higher temperatures up to 90 degrees.

Should you put water out for birds in hot weather?

Just like you, the birds in your garden need water to survive – so it’s important to leave some out for them, especially during a heatwave. If you’re not sure how to put out water for birds to drink and bathe in, read our Bird Bathing Guide or contact the Really Wild Bird Food team for expert advice.