It takes a little more effort
to supply water when
temperatures dip below
freezing, but the rewards are
great as you watch wildlife –
including species that you
won’t see at feeders – take
advantage of a chance to
drink and bathe.
Water can be provided in a
variety of ways, but as you
plan your habitat keep in mind
that moving water – whether
flowing or dripping – is the
most attractive to wildlife.
Also, think about location.
Bird baths need to be located
at least 15 feet from shrubs
that might hide cats, yet
close enough to taller trees to
allow escape from hawks.
Other animals may enjoy a
more sheltered spot to drink,
but most want to have a clear
view of any approaching
predators.
Dew on grass and leaves can
supply some water for rabbits
and other rodents, while
berries and other fruit are high
in moisture content, so try to
create safe feeding areas
where these are available.
Sand Pile for Butterflies
Butterflies and other insects
will be attracted to a shallow
container of wet sand placed
on the ground. However it is
presented, water needs to be
fresh, clean, plentiful, and
dependable.
There are many commercial
models of bird baths available,
but a trash can lid partially
sunk in the ground can also
work, as can hollowed-out
stone or concrete forms.
When the water is at ground-
level, having a dripping hose or
a bucket with a small hole in it
suspended above the bath will
attract more visitors.
The sides of a bird bath need
to be rough and slope gently to
a water depth of not more than
three inches. This will prevent
slipping or drowning.
Diagram of a small pond
Keep Water From Freezing
For the winter, commercial
bird bath heaters are available
which draw very little electricity
and will ensure a supply of open
water all season.
A landscaped bird bath or
fountain can become the focal
point of your property. If you
are feeling more ambitious, a
small waterfall will add the
soothing sound of moving water.
If your property has a pond or
stream on it, you will probably
already be attracting wildlife.
If water doesn’t occur
naturally, it is easier than ever
to create a pond using the
many kits and instruction
books now available.
A small pond only needs to be
one or two feet deep and eight
to ten feet across, lined with
either plastic or concrete. Soil
in the pond will allow you to add
water plants, and moisture-
