OUR NEW BIRDBATH

Handcrafted by Carol T.

Our Wildflower Garden is already a haven for pollinating butterflies and bees.  The Salvia and Gaura attract hummingbirds.  Now we have another addition to bring in more birds:  a hypertufa birdbath.   Following NCSU 'Going Native' these are some guidelines for adding a water feature:

Birdbath or Water Garden – Although water isn’t a limiting component of bird habitat in most of the Southeast, it may be scarce in some areas during periods of drought.  Birds normally obtain the water they need from their food, temporary pools, dew on plants or the ground, or permanent water sources.  If natural sources of water are not available in your yard or on a nearby property, a birdbath or artificial pond can provide an adequate water source and a focal area for watching birds.
• Birdbaths should be 2 to 3 inches deep and made of a rough surface to ensure good footing.  The basin should be 2 to 3 feet in diameter with a lip or edge for perching.
• Moving water is attractive to birds, and inexpensive pumps can be placed in backyard ponds to provide the sound of running water that attracts birds and other wildlife.
• It is important to clean your birdbath weekly and keep it full of fresh, cool water.  A birdbath can be cleaned with soap or chlorine bleach as long as it is rinsed thoroughly with water.

Click here for more ideas on GOING NATIVE

Photo by CT