For weeks it has been warmer and drier than in previous years in large parts of the Free State. What does this mean for forest and meadow dwellers and what should people pay attention to?
Feldkirchen (dpa / lby) - In view of the persistent summer temperatures and low rainfall, the Bavarian Hunting Association asks the population to be considerate of wild animals. "The game moves as little as possible on hot days. Human misconduct means additional strain and stress for wild animals," the association wrote in a statement on Monday. A walker who strays from the path or an off-leash dog could already have fatal consequences.
Summer temperatures usually don't pose a threat to wildlife, according to the recognized conservation group. "Although sweating is not possible for most animals, their own heat strategies cool them down perfectly. Wild boar wallow in the mud. Red deer stand up to their necks in water. Birds also like to take a bath in water. All these different strategies act as a natural air conditioning system ." But there are limits here too - a sustained heat wave harbors risks and is a stress factor.
A spokeswoman for the association assumed that the situation in the drier regions of the Free State, for example in the administrative district of Lower Franconia, was dramatic. "If the plants are not even covered with morning dew or if they are even dried up and can no longer provide moisture, how are the animals supposed to get the water they need for life?"
