Water

Water

Water is a precious commodity...essential to all forms of life. It covers over 70% of the earth, yet less than 3% of the surface waters is not salt water.

Animals need water sources for various reasons such as drinking, washing food, bathing and reproduction. These sources can be natural (such as ponds, lakes or streams) or they can be man made (such as bird baths, fountains or rain gardens).

One of the easiest ways to supply water to wildlife is to place a bird bath in your yard. Bird baths should be no deeper than 2". If it is deeper, it tends to scare off the birds, since they can not stand it it very well. If your bird bath is made deeper, just add a layer of rocks in the bottom to raise it to the proper level. Flower pot trays are also another way. These can be placed on the ground around the yard.

Ponds are a popular option, but require a bit more cleaning and maintenance...but they also attract more birds due to the trickling sounds. The sounds of trickling water attract birds. Another option a little more simple would be to have a whisky barrel pond. Many can be designed to look like a small pond by adding water plants, fountains and/or fish.

Water fountains are a fun addition to any water feature. The trickling sounds are a favorite for birds, and are relaxing to listen to yourself. The little birds love to splash around in the water. I would suggest a smaller fountain, so as to not lose too much water to evaporation.

Pots or buckets are another option, but they do have a drawback. If you plan to wash them out frequently and refill them with fresh water, it shouldn't be a problem...but if you let the water sit for a few days, you may become an unintentional breeder of mosquitoes.

I have a little squirrel visitor that will not drink out of anything but a clay vase I have on my deck. He will crawl down the deck post, hang upside down, and drink from the vase.

Water is important to butterflies as well...but they are not so fond of the ponds. Butterflies like muddy areas to drink from. One way you can make this is by using a flower pot tray. Add in a mix of dirt and sand. Add in just enough water to wet the dirt and sand, and have little puddles around the dish. You will have to add water frequently, since it will dry out quickly. You might consider installing a drip fountain to do this for you.

One of the fun ways I enjoy water and wildlife is to set out a sprinkler on a hot day and watch all of the robins come play. They get a good bath and sometimes a nice, juicy worm too!