Keeping cool isn’t always easy when you’re covered in feathers.
As temperatures soar, coastal birds face the same challenge we do – finding ways to beat the heat. Fortunately, they have ingenious ways to help them stay cool during the hottest days of summer. Read on to discover their clever cooling tricks – and see if you can spot them in action on your next coastal walk.
Making a splash
Many coastal species cool off by dipping into the water, which also helps to keep their feathers in top condition.
Afterwards, they ruffle their feathers and shake their bodies. This action helps distribute water evenly across their plumage and starts the process of evaporation – lowering their body temperature.
Finding a retreat
During the hottest parts of the day, shade can be hard to find along the coast. However, birds will retreat to any shaded areas they can find.
It could be beneath vegetation, rocks or man man-made structures such as sea walls and piers – just like this redshank here, hiding away in amongst some common sea-lavender.
A clever cooling trick
If shade is scarce, some birds have another trick up their sleeve. Like dogs, birds are unable to sweat, so they pant to release heat.
Gulls, terns, cormorants and even pigeons open their beaks and rapidly flutter the bones and muscles in their throat. This behaviour, known as ‘gular fluttering’, increases evaporation and helps cool the blood.
Some species also cool down by fluffing their feathers or holding their wings away from their body. This posture exposes areas of bare skin to passing breezes, releases trapped heat and allows cool air to circulate.
Birds can even increase blood flow to their legs, feet or bill to release heat and regulate their body temperature.
Timing is everything
Many coastal birds adjust their activity patterns during heatwaves. Physical activities such as feeding and foraging are usually done early in the morning or late evening when temperatures are lower.
During the hotter times of the day, birds rest and conserve energy, taking a much needed siesta.
Can you spot the bird taking a nap in this photo?
Not pretty, but effective
Some birds such as vultures, storks and certain herons deliberately excrete a mixture of urine and faeces onto their bare legs and feet. This process is called ‘urohidrosis’.
Birds have many blood vessels in their legs and feet. When liquid on their legs evaporates, it takes heat away from the blood near the skin. This cools the blood, which then flows back through the body and helps lower the bird’s overall body temperature.
So, if you see a stork or heron with white stained legs, it’s likely to be a sign of urohidrosis, not illness or injury.
Share the shore
The Solent’s coastline is a special place enjoyed by walkers, cyclists, paddlers, dog owners and wildlife alike.
Birds spend valuable energy feeding, resting and caring for their young. Hot weather can place additional stress on wildlife, making it even more important that we give them the space they need.
If birds stop feeding, become alert or move away as you approach, you may be too close. Giving birds plenty of space, keeping dogs under effective control and sticking to established paths can all help reduce disturbance.
By following the coastal code, we can all help ensure birds have the space they need to thrive while continuing to enjoy the coastline ourselves.
Want to know how to help look out for ground-nesting birds at this time of the year on the coast? Here are a few simple tips to keep in mind on your next walk along the Solent.
