HOUSTON — The dangerous heat is causing issues for Houston's wildlife, according to the Houston SPCA.
Emaciated animals are suffering from dehydration as they struggle to find water in these scorching temperatures, experts at the Wildlife Center of Texas said Monday.
They've seen a 20% increase in the number of sick, injured or orphaned animals compared to this time last year.
The animals, including a baby woodpecker, mockingbird and yellow-crowned night heron, are receiving fluid therapy to rehydrate them.
Once they're healthy again, the birds and other wildlife will be released.
Ways to help wildlife
- At least once a day, remove dirt and debris from birdbaths and fill them with fresh clean water.
- Put out extra birdseed or suet in your yard.
- Check under trees in your neighborhood for distressed wildlife that may have fallen.
- If you find a baby bird that doesn't appear to be injured, you can attempt to reunite with the parents by placing it back into the nest.
- Otherwise, place them in a box with soft rags and get them to the Houston SPCA’s Wildlife Center of Texas Center as soon as possible.
- Never attempt to feed or give water to any distressed wildlife as they may have other serious injuries.
- If it’s after business hours, place them in a quiet environment, away from regular household noise and pets until you can get them to the Center.
For complete guidelines on helping distressed wild animals, please visit their webpage or call the Houston SPCA’s Wildlife Center of Texas at 713-861-9453.