When Birds start dropping from the sky, it seems like the end of times is near. Perhaps that’s not the case — then again, since climate change is behind this scary phenomenon, maybe the alarmist vibe isn’t that far off the mark.
Recently, rescuers in India’s western Gujarat state are witnessing a distressing sight as dozens of exhausted and dehydrated Birds fall from the sky daily due to a scorching heat wave sweeping the area. And in a situation as grave as this, it’s obvious just how serious the effects of climate change are to vulnerable species in our ecosystem.
THE DEVASTATING IMPACT OF HEAT WAVES
As South Asia experiences one of the hottest summers in decades, water sources are rapidly drying up, posing significant challenges for both humans and animals.
In Gujarat, India, the effects of the heat wave on wildlife are becoming increasingly apparent. Veterinary doctors and animal rescuers in Ahmedabad have reported a significant surge in the number of exhausted Birds in need of immediate assistance.
A non-profit called Jivdaya Charitable Trust manages an animal hospital in Ahmedabad has been at the forefront of rescuing and treating these distressed avian creatures. Thousands of Birds have been cared for in the last few weeks, with rescuers bringing in dozens of high-flying species like Pigeons and Kites daily.
In an effort to combat dehydration, animal doctors at the trust-run hospital work around the clock, administering multi-vitamin tablets and spraying water into the Birds’ mouths using syringes.
by administering multi-vitamin tablets and spraying water into the Birds’ mouths using syringes.
(Gujarat Sahay website)
ESCALATING SITUATION
Water is crucial for all living beings, including humans. Unfortunately, with the ongoing heat wave, this critical element is quickly drying up, leaving behind parched patches of land. As a result, avian creatures in the area have limited choices when it comes to staying hydrated, which would essentially mean life or death for them.
THE DANGEROUS SEARCH FOR WATER
In their search for water, Birds often have to fly longer distances, expending valuable energy and becoming more vulnerable to exhaustion and dehydration.
The scorching heat not only depletes their bodily fluids but also affects their ability to find food, exacerbating their already dire situation.
CLIMATE CHANGE AND WATER AVAILABILITY
The rising temperatures and heat waves experienced across the globe are no longer isolated incidents. They are obvious signs of climate change, and at the root of it all is human activity.
The burning of fossil fuels and deforestation have released significant amounts of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, which cause frequent floods, droughts, wildfires, and tropical storms all over the world.
The terrifying situation over at Gujarat serves as a stark reminder that we need to take action against climate change as soon as possible. Rising temperatures are the least of our worries; the damage being done to the ecosystem is considerable, further depleting our already scarce resources.
NOT JUST ABOUT THE BIRDS
Birds are an integral part of ecosystems. They play a crucial role in pollination, seed dispersal, and Insect control. No Birds means no plants, which then means there will be no food for us.
And it’s not just the Birds; even humans are affected by the intense heat. Heatstroke, dehydration, and other heat-related illnesses become more prevalent during extended periods of heat exposure.
Health officials in Gujarat have already issued advisories to hospitals to set up special wards for patients with heat injuries.
WHAT WE CAN DO
It’s time to take environmental responsibility a lot more seriously. We must do our part to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions, conserve natural resources, and protect our delicate ecosystem however we can. [Coincidentally, the biggest way we can do this is to stop supporting animal agriculture, long considered to be a top driver of climate change. -Ed.]
Here are a few actions we can implement in our lives to combat global warming and help the birds who are greatly affected in this crisis.
BE VOCAL IN YOUR COMMUNITY
Start a conversation about the problem with whoever is around you, whether they be your friends, family, or community leaders.
Education can lead to action, so if people know about just how serious this issue is, they just might be galvanized into doing something about it.
GROW A BIRD-FRIENDLY GARDEN
Grow Bird-safe plants and vegetables. Just as important: Be willing to share your garden with Birds who may be looking for a quick snack to get their energy up!
You won’t know how a simple berry could actually mean the world to a tiny Bird passing by.
LEAVE WATER AND RESTING STATIONS
Installing Bird baths and feeders is a great way to help migrating Birds who need a place to roost and recover.
Keep a flowing Bird bath outdoors so that the water doesn’t turn stagnant (to prevent mosquitoes from taking over), and leave some birdseed in a feeder.
LESSEN YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT
Recycle or reuse, pick greener modes of transportation, consume vegetables over meat, and use biodegradable products.
Try to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle and encourage others to do the same. The more people come together for a common cause, the quicker change can take place.
