Wildlife rescuers in Pakistan are battling the effects of climate change to save birds suffering from dehydration and heatstroke amid rising temperatures. As Pakistan experiences extreme heatwaves, wildlife officers like Zaheer Ahmed are working diligently to rehabilitate affected birds. Ahmed recently performed a health checkup on an Asian koel, stretching its wings gently to ensure its well-being.
Rising Temperatures and Increased Bird Rescues
Pakistan, one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change, saw its second-warmest year in 2025 since 1960. Temperatures in Islamabad have soared past 40°C this summer, exacerbating the plight of local wildlife. Sakhawat Ali, director of the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board, notes a significant increase in rescue cases involving dehydrated and heat-stressed birds. "In the past, most cases involved birds with damaged wings from kite flying. But in recent years, dehydration and heat stress have become the primary issues."
Rehabilitation Efforts and Climate Change Impact
The Margallah Wildlife Rescue Centre, located at the foot of the Margalla Hills, plays a crucial role in rehabilitating wildlife. Once the site of the notorious Islamabad Zoo, the centre now focuses on rescuing and rehabilitating animals, including birds, bears, and monkeys. Ahmed reports receiving up to 30 calls a day during summer from concerned locals. The centre's priorities are providing medical attention, food, and water to the distressed animals. Birds are kept in quarantine until they are fit for release.
Extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, are becoming more frequent and intense due to human-induced climate change. Ahmed highlights the additional threat of forest fires, which can destroy birds' nests and habitats. "Birds' nests also get burned. The birds themselves also get burned a little. So their entire habitat is being destroyed."
Ali encourages residents to support local wildlife by providing water for birds to drink, bathe, and cool down. The Islamabad Wildlife Management Board is investigating whether climate change is disrupting birds' breeding seasons and food sources, which could lead to population declines.
