As temperatures soar to unprecedented highs, wildlife across Asia is grappling with the challenges of extreme heat. Among the most affected are raptors, the majestic birds of prey that play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling animal populations.
In Beijing, the Beijing Raptor Rescue Center stands as a beacon of hope for these birds. Co-established by the International Fund for Animal Welfare and Beijing Normal University, and authorized by Beijing authorities, the center has been dedicated to the rehabilitation of injured raptors since 2001. As of June 2023, it has rescued and rehabilitated 5,825 raptors.
To help these birds combat the relentless heat waves, the center employs a range of innovative measures. Sub-adult common kestrels and eagle owls are provided with outdoor sprinkler systems and water basins, allowing them to cool down and cleanse their feathers. These facilities mimic natural resources that might be scarce during heat waves, ensuring the raptors can regulate their body temperatures effectively.
Moreover, rehabilitation specialists at the center focus on strengthening the birds’ immunity. They provide ample nutritious food, including bee pupae nestled in pine cones, which not only boost the raptors’ strength but also encourage natural foraging behaviors.
“Ensuring these raptors adapt to the intense heat is vital for their survival and eventual return to the wild,” says a specialist at the center. “Our efforts aim to replicate their natural environment as closely as possible while providing the care they need to recuperate.”
These dedicated efforts not only aid in the immediate comfort of the raptors but also contribute to the broader goal of ecological preservation. By supporting the health and well-being of these predators, the Beijing Raptor Rescue Center helps maintain the delicate balance of ecosystems across the region.
As climate change continues to present new challenges, such initiatives highlight the importance of wildlife conservation and adaptive strategies to protect vulnerable species.
Reference(s):
Live: Guardians of wings – How raptors adapt to heat waves – Ep. 2
cgtn.com
