bird bathProviding fresh, clean water is a sure way to benefit birds this winter.  It’s also one of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to attract wildlife.

You can use a bird bath similar to the one shown at left, or simply place a wide shallow dish on the ground.  An excellent receptacle is the type of dish used under indoor plant containers. 

Another option is to encourage the existence of vernal pools by having recessed areas in your yard.  These are low-lying spots where water can accumulate in small amounts after heavy rainfalls or when the snow melts. 

Water depth and location are important

Birds and small mammals are especially attracted to small, shallow bodies of water.  They want to be able to keep their heads well above the surface of the water if they’re taking a bath and easily reach down to take a sip if they’re only stopping by for a drink.  

Although vernal pools are found in my yard, the bird bath gets a fair share of traffic as it is located near a feeding station on the edge of the woods.  I’ve set it apart from low plants to prevent any cats from stalking nearby.  The spot is a year round gathering place for Mourning Doves at sundown.

Why is clean, fresh water important?

  • Water is needed by birds for the digestion process as well as other vital body functions.  It’s especially needed by birds and mammals that eat dry seed.  Most birds need to take a drink twice a day.
  • Birds need to keep their feathers in top condition and water allows them to do this by making the preening process easier.  In the winter, well-groomed  feathers provide warmth by efficiently trapping the air around birds’ bodies. 

Although many birds may make use of pools of water in the woods, these may freeze over during the winter, making the presence of a bird bath even more important to their survival.  One simple way to keep the bath free of ice is to place a small, light ball in the bath.  When the wind blows, ever so slightly, the ball will move around, preventing the water from totally freezing over.

Regardless of the type of bird bath you set up, the birds and squirrels will reward you with frequent visits.

This post is the second in a series of 12 suggestions to ‘Do One Thing’ to encourage wildlife to thrive this Christmas.  I’ve adapted suggestions offered by BBC Breathing Places in the UK.  For more information, see http://www.bbc.co.uk/breathingplaces/doonething/quick/water_birds.shtml