Water Features for Wildlife
All wildlife need different types of access to water not only to drink but also bathe and in some cases to reproduce. A dish with rocks can provide a safe landing for pollinators to a pond which can support all sorts of wildlife including fish and amphibians. Additionally, the sound of running water can attract all sorts of wildlife to your new community of biodiversity.
What Are Wetlands?
This video by Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust (WWT) shows beautiful examples of what wetlands are and their importance to ecosystems across the globe.
40% of the world’s wildlife relies on freshwater wetlands
We’re losing wetlands 3 times faster than forests
We need to act now to help slow down and reverse the loss of wetlands. Together we can create, protect, and restore wetlands starting in our own gardens!
How can you safely add water into your garden to support wildlife?
Create your own water features
Make your own bird bath with the help of Audubon!
Support the bees and other pollinators with a water station.
“The Bird Flu Blazes On, Amping Up Concerns for Wildlife and Human Health” by Saima May Sidik
Have questions about avian flu? Check out the most recent article above from Audubon on the bird flu and the danger it poses to both wildlife and humans.
Learn about ponds!
Check out how this DIY large scale pond drastically changed the ecosystem.
Get the look while supporting wildlife
Tight on space, try a Bee Cup! Designed to replicate a flower these are perfect to tuck into your garden.
Need a birdbath/heater, solar fountain, or a Nature Oasis for pollinators stop by Wild Bird Junction
Have a consultation with Land Design Inc and learn more about the amazing Aquabasin that is on display.
Get the fountain that hummingbirds love to bathe and drink from!
Easy DIY ponds you can do yourself!
Maintenance
Where you place your water feature can help reduce the frequency of cleaning, moving water also helps and will reduce insects laying eggs. (Keep in mind insects make the best bird food) Read More
The best way to defend against mosquitos is to use sustainable practices to keep them off of you. Use this spray directly on you and use this one on your gear!
Recommended Reading
Books
Darke, Rick and Tallamy, Dr. Douglas, The Living Landscape: Designing for Beauty and Biodiversity in the Home Garden
Lawson, Nancy, The Humane Gardener
Leopold, Donald J., Native Plants of the Northeast: A Guide for Gardening & Conservation
Lorimer, Uli, The Northeast Native Plant Primer
McGrath, Anne, Wildflowers of the Adirondacks
Mizejewski, David, Attracting Birds, Butterflies, and Other Backyard Wildlife, Expanded Second Edition (Creative Homeowner) 17 Projects & Step-by-Step Instructions to Give Back to Nature (National Wildlife Federation)
Tallamy, Dr. Douglas, Bringing Nature Home
Tallamy, Dr. Douglas, Nature’s Best Hope
Tallamy, Dr. Douglas, The Nature of Oaks
Sousa, Elle, The Green Garden
Stein, Sara, Noah’s Garden: Restoring the Ecology of Our Own Back Yards
Native Plant Shopping Guide, https://www.hgcny.org/projects/shopping/ (downloadable guide in PDF format)