1 rich Libsyn https://www.libsyn.com 90 600 Summer is STILL here, and if you’ve stepped outside lately, you’ve probably felt it too—sweltering heat, sticky air, and maybe even a few critters making themselves a little&amp;nbsp;too comfortable in your backyard. In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie (with Chris chiming in, of course!) share a lighthearted but practical guide to keeping your habitat healthy during the hottest stretch of the year. &amp;nbsp; ☀️ Heat &amp;amp; Hydration – Creative ways to keep bird baths cool, from ice cubes to misters, plus why moving feeders into shade can make all the difference. 🐦 Summer Feeding Tips – When to swap out hummingbird nectar, how to keep suet from melting, and a freezer trick to protect birdseed from pests. 🌪️ Weather &amp;amp; Wildlife – Preparing your yard before storms, and what to do if you find a nest on the ground afterward. 🌱 Pests &amp;amp; Plants – Why spraying isn’t the answer, how to handle Japanese beetles and mosquitoes naturally, and which invasive plants to watch out for. 🦝 Backyard Bullies – From raccoons and squirrels to starlings and outdoor cats, Debbie and Laurie share stories, laughs, and tried-and-true tricks to keep the peace. &amp;nbsp; This isn’t just about surviving summer—it’s about helping your backyard thrive. With practical tips, neighborly humor, and plenty of “whoa!” moments, you’ll walk away ready to make your space a safe, welcoming spot for wildlife (and maybe a little cooler for yourself, too). &amp;nbsp; Don’t miss this fun, informative episode of The Backyard Naturalists! Listen now, and be sure to subscribe, share with a friend, and leave us a review so more folks can discover how rewarding it is to care for the nature right outside their door. The Backyard Naturalists http://www.thebackyardnaturalists.com <iframe title="Libsyn Player" style="border: none" src="//html5-player.libsyn.com/embed/episode/id/37870110/height/90/theme/custom/thumbnail/yes/direction/forward/render-playlist/no/custom-color/88AA3C/" height="90" width="600" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen oallowfullscreen msallowfullscreen></iframe> https://assets.libsyn.com/secure/item/37870110