05/06/2026
Wetlands are some of our most powerful allies in tackling environmental challenges.💙
When extreme weather events like heatwaves hit, we all look for ways to keep cool. Whether you have your fan set-up down to a fine art, hide in the shade and consume many, many, ice lollies, or seek out wetlands, which can be tempting places to find some much-needed cool.☀️
But as heatwaves become more frequent, and are happening earlier in the year when birds are raising their young, wetland wildlife can be especially vulnerable. 🐣
Wetlands truly are for everyone, and we can all share these beautiful spaces respectfully. Here's some top tips to remember the next time you're tempted to go for a dip in the sunshine:
🦢 Give wildlife space - avoid approaching birds, especially those with nests, chicks or young nearby.
🗑️ Leave no trace - take all litter home and help keep wetlands and other wild spaces safe for wildlife, and other people!
🌱 Respect the habitat - keep to pathways and never light fires or use disposable barbecues, which can cause devastating damage.
By making small, mindful choices, we can all help wetlands and wildlife thrive through periods of extreme weather.
[Image description: A wetland scene that shows half the image beneath the water and the vegetation and plants below the surface and half above the water and a clear blue sky. Text says “How to interact with wetlands in a heatwave”.]
