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Warmer weather is finally on the way back to the UK this week, with forecasts of a hot and rain-free 19C landing this Thursday, April 23, according to the Met Office. But with hotter weather and clear skies comes the need to protect endangered wildlife, which gardeners are being urged to do during any dry, warm period in the coming spring and summer months.

Brits are being asked to set out a bowl of water in their gardens or outside their homes on their driveways this week, while the weather is warmer. The weather is set to be hotter in the UK than in Greece towards the end of this week, according to weather maps and forecasts. In London on Thursday, conditions will hit 19C, with clear skies and sunshine all day, a high pollen forecast, and almost zero chance of rain.

During spells of prolonged sun, some have reported seeing dead birds in the street, and it's not a stretch to imagine that already critically endangered hedgehogs are also potentially struggling with the lack of water.

That's why every household is being urged to leave a source of drinking water outside their home, either in the garden or on the driveway, when warm weather hits the UK.

The Wildlife Trusts explains: "Water is essential for wildlife to thrive, but it isn't just for drinking. Amphibians like newts, frogs and toads use water as shelter and breeding grounds. Butterflies get valuable minerals and salts from slightly muddy water, and birds use water to bathe and remove parasites.

"During hot summer weather, it is important to have plenty of water for animals and birds to drink and bathe in. But don't stop there! It is also important to keep the water topped up during the chilly winter months as sources of water can become frozen and more difficult to find.

"If you install a bird bath, make sure it has gradual edges and is roughly textured. If you want to go the extra mile, hanging a drip jug above your bird bath will attract more birds as they hear the dripping water.

The Trusts added:

• Put water where you can watch the activity as you're not going to want to miss anything!
• Use a specially made bird bath, or just a bowl on the floor - you'll attract different creatures to different settings.
• Place water for birds near a shrub or tree as they like to approach from a place of safety.
• Watch for predators such as cats.
• Leave water where you can easily access it for cleaning and filling.
• Introduce a small, shallow or running water feature and provide water for birds, as well as butterflies and other insects. Even an old sink can be turned into a water feature!
• Dig a pond and attract even more wildlife into your garden, from frogs and toads, to dragonflies and herons! Remember to provide shallow edges so anything that falls in can get back out again.
• Set up a water butt so that you can easily top up water sources with rainwater - a great way to conserve water!