As Pakistan grapples with the intensifying consequences of climate change, its wildlife is facing a severe crisis. The nation recently recorded its second-warmest year since 1960, with summer temperatures in Islamabad frequently soaring above 40C. Wildlife officials at the Margalla Wildlife Rescue Centre note a significant shift in the types of cases they handle; while bird injuries were once primarily caused by kite strings, today the majority of admissions involve exhaustion from extreme dehydration and heatstroke.

Situated on the former grounds of the Islamabad Zoo, the rescue center has become a vital refuge for animals struggling to survive in a rapidly warming environment. Staff members now field up to 30 distress calls daily, working tirelessly to provide medical care, hydration, and nutrition to affected birds. Beyond the immediate heat stress, rescuers are concerned about the long-term impacts of climate change, including habitat loss from frequent forest fires and potential disruptions to natural breeding cycles. To support these efforts, officials are urging local residents to leave out bowls of water, a simple act that can help urban bird populations stay cool and hydrated during these dangerous heatwaves.