CLAY COUNTY – Extremely hot weather seems more common each year, and the heat is causing stress for our wildlife, particularly our birds, bees and butterflies.

Here are some suggestions on how you can help now and in the future.

• Provide water for butterflies and bees by placing a shallow dish of water outside and adding a few stones so that they protrude above the waterline so they can safely reach the water. Putting birdbaths, misters or fountains in your yard will also help the birds.

• Provide some sort of shelter so that all our flying friends have a place to rest. Plant a native tree that can provide shade, reduce surface temperature, and don’t trim shrubbery back too far, thus leaving a place for them to hide. Use a garden hose to mist spray onto trees and shrubs. Hummingbirds, butterflies and bees will also gather water this way.

• Provide food by planting bee and butterfly-friendly flowers such as sage, rosemary, lavender, lantana, zinnias and wildflowers. The spent blooms of these flowers will also provide seeds for the birds. Hang feeders for birds near trees so they can quickly grab a seed and return to the shade.

Here’s hoping you will help these wonderful creatures we enjoy watching daily.