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Fresh
water is important to birds, so add a birdbath to the
garden. The bath should be shallow (less than
6cm deep) with sloping sides so birds can wade into it.
Rough surfaces are best. A few rocks may serve as perches.
Birdbaths should be cleaned at least twice a week using
a stiff-bristled brush. (This keeps the water fresh and
also helps minimize mosquito populations.) Again, as with
feeders, avoid the use of disinfectants or strong chemicals.
Birds are attracted to the sound of running water, so
consider the addition of a fountain or bubbler. (The sound
is soothing for human visitors to your garden too.) Robins,
especially, enjoy water because they bathe more often
than most birds, about twice daily. They have excessive
oil production and must rid their feathers of these oils
before the feathers clump.
Take care to place the birdbath in a sunny location, away
from dense shrubs and trees where cats can lie
in wait.
It isn't difficult to design a bird garden. Chances are,
you have some elements already. An added benefit is that
birds prefer green space that is a tad messy rather than
pristine and well manicured, so it helps to be a little
lazy. A garden for the birds can be a great excuse to
sit back, relax, grab a cool drink and, well, do a little
bird watching.
Text by Julianne Labreche, Master Gardener in Training
Photos by Nancy Seppala, Master Gardener |
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