THIS summer’s heat wave is turning into a catastrophe for some farmers trying to salvage crops. Also it hasn’t helped wildlife looking for food and water.

Due to public obsession with grass cutting, Southampton City Council appears to have started cutting as short as workable. This is stressing the grass meaning that there will be play areas completely parched if the weather doesn’t turn around soon.

The few places where there are brambles, in managed areas, wildlife can take shelter and be protected from extreme sunlight and predators. Some insects like moths and butterflies can only survive by feasting on the blossoms of wild flowers and shrubs like hawthorn.

Residents can also help by leaving a patch of bramble in gardens and by using water harvested from rain to water areas where it will be most beneficial.

Lastly shallow pools of water with pebbles can help birds and insects such as bees quench their thirst.

Joe Cox

Southampton