Mumbai, March 17 – The sweltering heat in Mumbai over the past few days has become unbearable, not just for humans but also for animals and birds. Rising temperatures have led to a sharp increase in cases of dehydration and exhaustion among birds, with many collapsing mid-flight. Compared to last year, the number of injured birds due to heat has surged fivefold in March alone. Over the past 16 days, 58 birds and 3 stray dogs have been admitted to animal hospitals in a critical state.
Heatwave Intensifies in Mumbai
Mumbai has been experiencing extreme heat conditions much earlier than usual, with maximum temperatures hovering around 35 degrees Celsius. This scorching heat has left stray animals and birds struggling for food, water, and shelter. Dehydration-related incidents have increased, causing birds to collapse mid-air due to exhaustion.
Sharp Rise in Injured Birds
According to Dr. Mayur Dhangar, manager of The Bai Sakarbai Dinshaw Petit Hospital for Animals, the number of injured birds brought in for treatment has increased significantly this year. The hospital has received 58 birds, including pigeons, crows, kites, and parrots, all suffering from heat-related ailments. Additionally, three stray dogs have also been admitted due to heat exhaustion.
“Typically, in the first half of March, we receive around 8-10 cases of injured birds. However, this year, the number has risen dramatically,” said Dr. Dhangar.
Experts’ Advice: How to Help Birds and Animals
Veterinarians have urged citizens to take simple steps to help prevent further casualties among animals and birds:
✅ Place water bowls on rooftops, balconies, and gardens to provide relief to birds.
✅ Keep shaded areas accessible for stray animals to protect them from direct sunlight.
✅ Avoid taking pets out in the sun and ensure they remain hydrated.
✅ Do not feed pets fried, spicy, or meat-based food that may aggravate dehydration.
Mumbai, a city dominated by high-rise buildings, offers very limited nesting spaces for birds. Animal welfare activists have encouraged residents to place water containers on terraces so that birds can drink and bathe, helping them combat the heat.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
