Turning Your Backyard into Wild Bird Habitat: Water Gardening
By Cindy "PondLady" McCord

Creating a backyard sanctuary where one can escape the stress and uncertainties of the “real world” is something we can all do with just a bit of planning. A simple, inexpensive water feature will benefit both you and your bird friends!

Creating a bird pond habitat requires just a few simple steps. Birds will readily drink from a feature that offers easy access from branches or rocks. A shallow area with a sand or gravel bottom will allow the birds to see that the water is shallow enough for bathing. Three inches is typically considered the maximum depth for bathing. Shallow, gently flowing streams offer this setting. Your water feature must offer a sense of security where birds will feel safe from predators. A branch overhanging the water allows the birds to inspect the water before venturing in. Plant a shrub nearby to provide a place for the birds to perch and preen after their visits to the water.

Birds are attracted to your water feature not only by appearance, but by sound. By including a re-circulating pump, you will attract more birds and keep the water from becoming stagnant. Mosquitoes are less likely to breed in water that is moving.

Perhaps you live in a home with a small yard or young children where a water garden pond is not practical. Never fear – you can still create a wonderful feature that will attract wild birds! Hidden reservoir features can be created from kits or from inexpensive components available at any hardware store. Sink a reservoir container beneath the ground, place a small 80-150 gallons per hour submersible pump in the reservoir and affix flexible tubing to the pump so that water is directed to a spouting ornament or just above your decorative stone. Place a plastic grate or hardware cloth over the top of the container and cover with decorative stones (I like Mexican beach pebbles). The addition of a small heater or deicer will keep your feature available throughout the winter months when other water sources are unavailable.

Treat yourself and your birds to the tranquility and beauty of moving water and enjoy every moment in your own backyard!

NOTE: Cindy McCord owns Affordable Ponds and Gardens, Cincinnati’s first online
water gardening store! Cindy is committed to creating unique, individualized water features–from small interior fountains to exterior ponds and patio gardens–all at affordable prices. For information about estimates, installation or maintenance call Cindy at 513-528-9070 or visit her website www.pondsandgardens.com.