Rising temperatures put Pakistan’s birds at risk

As temperatures continue to soar across Pakistan, wildlife rescuers are working tirelessly to save birds suffering from dehydration, heat exhaustion, and other climate-related illnesses.

Islamabad: As temperatures continue to soar across Pakistan, wildlife rescuers are working tirelessly to save birds suffering from dehydration, heat exhaustion, and other climate-related illnesses. Conservationists warn that rising temperatures and increasingly frequent heatwaves are placing growing pressure on the country’s wildlife, particularly bird populations.

At the Margallah Wildlife Rescue Centre in Islamabad, injured and distressed birds are treated daily before being released back into their natural habitats. Wildlife officers provide emergency medical care, rehydration, food and shelter to birds weakened by the intense summer heat. During the hottest months, the centre receives dozens of calls from residents reporting exhausted or injured birds found in parks, gardens, and residential areas.

According to officials, the pattern of rescue cases has changed significantly in recent years. While birds were once commonly injured by kite-flying strings or accidental collisions, dehydration and heat stress have now become the leading causes of emergency rescues. Experts believe this shift reflects the increasing impact of climate change on local wildlife.

Pakistan remains among the countries most vulnerable to climate change. Rising temperatures, prolonged heatwaves, and changing weather patterns have created difficult conditions for many species. Birds struggle to find clean water, suitable nesting areas, and enough food during extreme weather, making them especially vulnerable during the summer season.

The rescue centre itself represents a remarkable transformation. The site once housed Islamabad Zoo, which closed several years ago following concerns over poor animal welfare. Today, it serves as a rehabilitation facility where injured wildlife, including birds, bears, monkeys and other rescued animals, receive professional care before returning to the wild whenever possible.

Wildlife experts also warn that forest fires caused by prolonged heat are destroying bird habitats and nests during critical breeding periods. Such environmental damage threatens not only individual animals but also the long-term survival of several bird species.

Conservationists are encouraging the public to play a simple but meaningful role in protecting wildlife. Residents are advised to place shallow bowls of clean water on rooftops, balconies, gardens, and open spaces, allowing birds to drink, cool themselves, and survive the hottest parts of the day.

Researchers are continuing to study how climate change is affecting breeding seasons, migration patterns, and food availability for birds across Pakistan. As temperatures continue to rise, experts believe that protecting wildlife will require greater public awareness, stronger conservation efforts and long-term environmental action to reduce the effects of climate change on the country’s rich biodiversity.