How to Add Backyard Water Features for Wildlife
![A single white flower stands in the foreground as lily pads float on a small in-ground water feature with water flowing from a spout into the small pond.](http://extension.msstate.edu/sites/default/files/styles/slide_show/public/blog/blog20181130water-wildlife.png?itok=L9KgUdCl)
If you like to watch the birds that visit your yard, you probably have at least one bird feeder. Adding a source of water will offer birds and other wildlife a much needed refuge when the weather is hot and dry.
Water is one of the three necessities when creating a space that wildlife want to visit.
Bird baths are quick and easy to install. But in-ground water features also work, and they have other benefits you also might enjoy.
Dr. Adam Rhonke, Extension wildlife biologist, shows you a few options for providing a fresh source of water for birds and other wildlife.
Video by Jonathan Parrish
Thinking of adding more bird feeders? Let Adam show you how to choose backyard bird feeders.
You can find more information about attracting birds to your backyard on our website.
For all the details about creating a backyard that wildlife will want to visit, read Extension publication 2402, “Establishing a Backyard Wildlife Habitat.”
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