Introducing any of the following water sources to your backyard creates an interesting focal point that will benefit both you and the birds.

Bird Baths

There are many styles of bird baths to choose from to match any budget. There are hanging baths, standing and ground baths, and deck-mounted baths. They also come in a variety of materials, i.e. plastic, metal, terra cotta and stone. Artistic bird baths are particularly attractive.

Choose a bath that has a source for moving water. The combination of moving water and the sound it makes will draw birds like a magnet. There is little doubt that a bubbling bird bath will provide you as much pleasure as it does the birds.

Many bird baths are now manufactured with a drip system, bubbling water, or misting sprays that keep the water moving.

If you have a lawn irrigation system it can be connected to a bird bath for continuous water flow. Run a line with a spray emitter from a drip system to the birdbath. Every time the irrigation system turns on fresh water will flush out the bath and refill it.

You can simply create moving water yourself. Just hang a large plastic bottle, old bucket, etc. over the bird bath after putting a pin size hole in the bottom. The drip (ideally, about 2 drops per second) will keep the water moving. If you're using an open container to hold your dripping water be sure to place a lid over it to reduce water outflow.

A nice advantage of a bird bath is it's mobility --- you can test the best placement.

Fountains

One reason to consider adding a small pump-driven fountain to your birdscape is its aesthetic appeal. The pump, of course, will create the water movement. With the large choice of styles it is easy to find the perfect "look" for you. To adjust the water depth place various size rocks in the fountain for birds to stand on.

Ponds

If your backyard can accommodate a larger water environment consider a recirculating pond. What's needed? Just a hole in the ground, a plastic pond liner, and a water pump. Adding rocks, water plants and landscaping the perimeter will make it look very natural.

Affordable do-it-yourself kits are available. Here are two versatile pond kits to choose from -- single-level or a two-level cascade. Your man-made pond will extend a very special welcome to your feathered friends making them feel safer in the "natural" environment. In fact, what they will feel ... is right at home!

Water Depth

By creating various water depths in your water environment more birds will come. If the water is too deep they can't use it. As stated earlier the use of rocks to vary the depth of water is very practical. Rock not only provides a natural look but offers a non-slippery surface. It is the best method to meet the needs of different species. We like to use rocks that gently slope into the water, so the birds can find their own comfort level to bathe.

Whatever your space permits, providing water in your bird-friendly yard is essential. The birds won't care if it's elaborate or simple . . . they just want a reliable water source all year long.

Don't let the bath become fouled with leaves, feathers and just plain old dirt and debris. Clean it regularly with a blast from a garden hose. If more attention is needed scrub with a stiff brush before refilling with clean water.

Learning about nature is a life-long journey. Our goal is to exist in harmony with nature and help others discover and enjoy the nature that exists in all of our backyards. We invite you to join us.