As the UK faces a weekend heatwave with temperatures set to exceed 30C, Brits are urged to leave a water bowl in their garden. It's for a very good cause10:17, 10 Jul 2026Brits have been urged to leave a bowl of water out in their gardens this weekend – for a very good cause.‌It's not just humans who suffer in the hot weather. With that being said, this simple action will help protect birds and all manner of wildlife as temperatures soar.‌The UK is home to a remarkable variety of wildlife, and many creatures, both large and small, may seek refuge in our gardens, often treating them as a safe haven. As these animals don't have the same means as humans to stay cool and hydrated during the hottest days of the year, animal lovers and wildlife trusts have been sharing their top tips for making this sweltering period a little easier for the creatures around us.‌With temperatures expected to climb to 30C and beyond this weekend, Brits have been asked to provide some water for all the fauna that passes by. Taking to TikTok, a user known as 'reputationdave' posted a video of a bird drinking from a garden bird bath, urging others to leave water out for animals throughout the summer months.They said: "This is your sign to put a water bowl in your garden. Let's all help the birds this summer."Why you should put a bowl of water in your gardenContent cannot be displayed without consent‌Birds that feed on seeds require clean drinking water, and all birds need to bathe to keep their feathers in prime condition and to get rid of pests. According to the UK Wildlife Trusts, bird baths should be refilled regularly to help local feathered visitors stay hydrated during hot spells.Birds and other garden wildlife can struggle to find enough fresh water during extended periods of warm weather, making these baths a crucial source of hydration and relief for these small creatures.But if you don't already have a bird bath in your garden, a large plant saucer works just as well, as it's simple to clean. Bear in mind, though, that this will need to be topped up every day.‌If your birdbath is the type that sits on a pedestal, remember that other creatures need to drink as well. A shallow dish placed on the ground gives access to hedgehogs and other small mammals.If you also pop a stone in the water with the top part sticking out, insects such as bees will be able to reach the water too.And if you fancy going the extra mile, you could dig a pond in your garden to attract even more wildlife, while keeping those already living nearby hydrated. This might also bring in everything from frogs and toads to dragonflies and herons.Article continues belowThe Wildlife Trusts also advise setting up a water butt in your garden, making it easy to top up water sources with rainwater – a brilliant way to conserve water too.Leaving water out for wildlife shouldn't be reserved solely for the warmer summer months. When temperatures plummet, and water freezes over, it becomes just as difficult for wildlife to find fresh water to drink. To lend a helping hand, simply break the ice on the bird baths each day or replace it with lukewarm water.