Mangaluru: Rising summer temperatures and humidity in Coastal Karnataka are putting severe stress on animals and birds, especially productive livestock such as cattle and chickens, said Dr Arun Kumar Shetty, deputy director of animal husbandry and veterinary services.“During summer, cattle experience reduced food intake due to heat stress, leading to decreased milk yield or even the possibility of death due to extreme heat,” he said.“Meat chickens may significantly reduce their food intake, resulting in insufficient weight gain, and may start dying when temperatures exceed 36°C. Animals and birds suffering from heat stress may have weakened immunity, making them susceptible to infectious diseases,” Dr Shetty said, warning of potential economic losses.“From a humanitarian perspective, arrangements can also be made to provide clean water to other animals and birds around homes or gardens,” Dr Shetty said.
