The ongoing drought in England and Wales has led to a crisis for wildlife rescue centers, which are now overwhelmed with cases of dehydrated and heat-exhausted animals. Hedgehogs and owls, in particular, have suffered due to the lack of food and water sources, as well as the destruction of their habitats by fires. The Nuneaton and Warwickshire Wildlife Sanctuary has seen an unprecedented influx of hedgehogs and hoglets, who struggle to find food and water due to the hard ground and dried-up sources. Emma Hudson, assistant manager at the sanctuary, emphasizes the need for fluids and shade to help these creatures recover.
The impact of the drought extends beyond hedgehogs and owls. Birds, animals, and insects are all affected by the extreme heat and lack of water. At Brandon Marsh in Warwickshire, water levels are critically low, and one lake has completely dried up. Karl Curtis, director of nature reserves for Warwickshire Wildlife Trust, highlights the knock-on effect of the drought, explaining that the scarcity of food and water makes it even more challenging for wildlife to survive. He estimates that it would take months of steady rain to replenish the water systems.
The public is being urged to take action to help wildlife. Simple adjustments in gardens can make a significant difference. Leaving out water in shallow bowls and topping it up regularly can help animals like hedgehogs. Adding stones to these bowls can also assist insects that might fall in. Providing cover from the sun by leaving out logs, letting plants grow tall, and keeping gardens 'messy' creates more shelter for wildlife. Topping up bird baths is another crucial step, as birds need water to bathe and maintain their feathers.
The RSPCA has seen a dramatic increase in heat-distressed herring gull chicks brought into its wildlife sanctuaries. In June and July 2025, they took in 380 chicks, but this year, the number soared to 1,297. Staff have been working tirelessly to keep the chicks hydrated and cool by filling paddling pools and using sprinklers. When the chicks are ready, they are released into the wild at 06:00 BST. The organization has also noted a 30% rise in dehydrated and orphaned hedgehogs being cared for over the same period compared to 2025.
Despite the forecast of cooler and wetter conditions in the drought areas over the next week, the situation for wildlife is unlikely to improve rapidly. The drought has had a devastating impact on the environment, and it will take time for the affected areas to recover. This crisis highlights the urgent need for sustainable water management and conservation efforts to protect wildlife and ensure the long-term health of our ecosystems.
