When Summer Begins Early: How Bengaluru’s Wildlife Feels the Heat First

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 As February draws to a close, summer quietly begins to settle over Bengaluru. Days grow warmer, water sources start shrinking, and for the city’s wildlife, this seasonal shift can mean the difference between survival and distress.

While many of us prepare for summer by switching on fans or planning weekend escapes, urban wildlife experiences the season very differently—often with limited shelter, water, or safe spaces.

Why Summer Is a Critical Time for Urban Wildlife

For birds, reptiles, small mammals, and even larger species navigating the city’s fringes, summer brings multiple challenges:

  • Dehydration and heat stress due to rising temperatures

  • Loss of water sources as lakes, puddles, and seasonal streams dry up

  • Displacement of young animals, especially fledglings and infants separated from parents

  • Increased human–wildlife interactions, as animals venture closer to homes in search of water and food

At PfA Wildlife Hospital, this period marks a steady rise in distress calls and rescues, particularly involving birds found exhausted, fallen from nests, or injured after prolonged heat exposure.



Birds and the Silent Struggle for Water

Birds are often the first to show signs of heat stress. Panting, drooping wings, and lethargy are common indicators. Nesting birds also face an added burden—keeping their chicks alive in soaring temperatures, often without reliable access to water.

Simple factors like reflective rooftops, reduced tree cover, and construction activity intensify this struggle in urban spaces.

Reptiles on the Move

Summer also increases sightings of snakes and other reptiles. As temperatures rise and natural habitats dry out, these animals move in search of cooler spaces and water—sometimes ending up in gardens, parking lots, or buildings.

While these encounters can cause fear, most reptiles are not aggressive and are simply trying to survive the heat. Calling trained rescuers ensures safety for both people and animals.

What Citizens Can Do—Small Actions, Big Impact

Saving wildlife in summer doesn’t always require specialised knowledge. Small, thoughtful actions can go a long way:

  • Keep shallow bowls of water on balconies, terraces, and gardens

  • Place pebbles or twigs in water bowls so insects and small birds don’t drown

  • Do not “rescue” fledglings unnecessarily—many are learning to fly and are still being cared for by parents

  • Avoid leaving chemical-laced water or food outdoors

  • If you see an injured, dehydrated, or trapped animal, call trained rescuers immediately


When to Call for Help

If an animal is visibly injured, bleeding, unable to move, or severely dehydrated, timely intervention is crucial. PfA Wildlife Hospital’s free rescue helpline operates year-round, ensuring animals receive proper care, treatment, and rehabilitation before being released back into the wild.



A Shared City, A Shared Responsibility

Bengaluru’s wildlife doesn’t live in forests alone—it shares our trees, lakes, buildings, and neighbourhoods. As summer begins, being mindful of their needs is one of the simplest ways we can coexist compassionately.

At PfA Wildlife Hospital, every summer rescue reminds us that awareness saves lives. With a little care, empathy, and timely action, we can ensure that the city’s wild residents survive—and thrive—through the season.

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