The current winter cold snap in Burnaby and the rest of the Lower Mainland isn’t simply a matter of putting on a warm jacket.
It’s harmful to local wildlife, including hummingbirds.
“Winter cold snaps pose challenges to wildlife,” says a news release from Burnaby’s Wildlife Rescue Association. “Hummingbirds across lower B.C. are in danger. The freezing weather depletes reliable food sources, making winter survival less likely for many of these beautiful gems. Winter is a survival crisis for animals who are facing a lack of insects and nectar from flowering plants to maintain their temperatures. Without proper care and nutrition, freezing temperatures can lead to starvation and death of many hummingbirds.”
Wildlife Rescue's Support Centre is handling an influx of community calls for distressed, freezing, and starving hummingbirds and only expect more in the coming days as the temperatures drop, said the news release.
“Some signs to watch for in the bird species are on the ground, weak, confused, soiled, tongue sticking out, visible injuries, or unable to fly. Please bring it to Wildlife Rescue as soon as possible,” said Janelle Stephenson, hospital manager for Wildlife Rescue Association.
As a non-profit organization, Wildlife Rescue relies on the generosity of donations to continue caring for injured, orphaned, and pollution-damaged wildlife. Donations can be made here. If members of the public see wildlife in distress, contact the Wildlife Help Centre at 604-526-7275.
