Impact of Extreme Heat on Wildlife and Insects
The ongoing heatwave has had a severe effect on wildlife, particularly insects that rely on grasses for sustenance. According to Craig Bennett, chief executive of The Wildlife Trusts, which represents 46 independent conservation charities, the ground in many areas is parched, with significant consequences for ecosystems.
In Trumpington Meadows near Cambridge, the situation is especially concerning. The grasses, which are typically lush and green during this time of year, have turned dry and brown, making them unpalatable for insects. This shift in conditions has occurred much earlier than usual, creating challenges for wildlife that depend on these plants for food.
Iain Webb from The Wildlife Trust in Cambridgeshire noted that the early drying of grasses is causing alarm. “You would expect this to happen in late July or early August, but it’s already the end of June,” he said. “These plants should still be rich and green, providing nourishment for insects. Instead, there are fewer of them, which is a worrying sign.”
The early onset of dry conditions means that insects may not be getting enough food to survive. Mr. Webb emphasized that the regular occurrence of extreme weather events is preventing insect populations from recovering to levels necessary for their survival.
In addition to the heat, other factors such as pesticide use, low water levels in rivers, and pollution continue to threaten insect populations. Mr. Bennett highlighted that the heatwave is compounding these existing pressures, making it harder for wildlife to bounce back.
Buglife, a Peterborough-based charity, reported that while it is too early to fully assess the impact, there are growing concerns. Paul Hetherington from Buglife mentioned that people are noticing more dead bees on the ground than usual. He explained that bumblebees and wasps are particularly affected by the extreme heat.
“Bumblebee activity changes so that they are only out and foraging in the early morning and late evening when the temperature is at its lowest,” he said. “Prolonged heat also causes flowers to mature and die quickly, leading to an initial pollen and nectar glut followed by a period of famine.”
Another issue is that many nests are still establishing themselves, resulting in lower numbers of worker insects. This makes colonies more vulnerable if heat-induced mortality increases.
How Can the Public Help?
To support local wildlife, the public can take simple steps to help insects cope with the heat. Providing water in shallow bird baths, garden ponds, or saucers can offer a crucial resource for insects during hot periods. These small actions can make a significant difference in helping species survive harsh conditions.
As the climate continues to change, the challenges faced by wildlife are likely to increase. Conservationists urge continued awareness and action to protect vulnerable species and maintain ecological balance.
