As temperatures soar in Mumbai and its neighbouring districts under an IMD yellow alert, birds and domestic animals are facing severe heat stress, with many collapsing from dehydration and exhaustion. PICS/BY SPECIAL ARRANGMENT
Updated On: 2026-03-24 01:05 PM IST
Compiled by : Tarun Verma
A black kite cools off in the shade near water, showing signs of dehydration. Common indicators of heat stress in birds include panting, drooping wings, lethargy, rapid breathing and in severe cases, collapse or seizures
At Bai Sakarbai Dinshaw Petit Hospital for Animals, over 70 birds and nearly 20 dogs and cats have been treated for dehydration in early March, including an injured barn owl and a dehydrated crow seen resting during recovery
Petit Hospital staff and volunteers carefully rescued a distressed Brahminy kite, highlighting the importance of timely intervention during heatwaves
Household pets, including dogs and cats, are also affected by heat stress, making up 20 percent of dehydration cases at the hospital
Simple care steps like moving animals to shade, sprinkling water, letting them rest, and contacting rescue services can save lives during heatwaves
Citizens like Harshita Charatker and her family rescued a barn owl found on the road, demonstrating the importance of community action in animal welfare.