Early Arrival of Summer Birds in Berlin Amidst Dry Conditions

The recent spell of summer-like weather in Berlin has led to the early arrival of various migratory birds, including nightingales, swallows, and cuckoos. This phenomenon has drawn attention from both nature enthusiasts and city dwellers, who have been frequenting local parks and lakes. According to urban nature expert Derk Ehlert, the warm weather has allowed these birds to arrive ahead of their usual schedule.

Experts suggest that the prolonged dry conditions in the preceding months have played a significant role in this early migration. Typically, many birds avoid traveling during rainy weather, but this year, favorable winds have aided their journey. Additionally, the emergence of May beetles has also been noted earlier than usual, flying approximately two to three weeks ahead of their typical arrival.

The early appearance of these beetles is beneficial for local wildlife, particularly for hedgehogs, bats, and foxes, which rely on them as a food source. As hedgehogs awaken from hibernation, the availability of beetles becomes crucial, especially since earthworms tend to bury themselves deeper in the ground during dry spells, making them harder to find.

However, the ongoing drought has raised concerns regarding the overall health of the ecosystem. Ehlert highlighted that the months of February, March, and April were marked by significant dryness, impacting not just birds but also plant life. Many trees and plants that are beginning to sprout new leaves require ample rainfall to thrive.

Interestingly, the lush green canopy observed in the city is attributed to the energy reserves that trees accumulated in previous years, alongside the pre-formed buds that helped them survive the dry conditions.

In light of the environmental challenges posed by the drought, Ehlert encourages residents to assist local wildlife. He suggests placing shallow dishes of water in gardens and parks to provide bathing opportunities for birds. Furthermore, he advises leaving fallen leaves during autumn, as they offer protection for hibernating animals and help reduce evaporation during dry months.