There are so many ways to attract wild birds to your yard. One of the best ways to bring all types of birds a little closer is by providing them water. There are many birds that do not 'snack' on birdfeed, so adding a water source will attract many kinds of birds.
The easiest and most cost effective method to supply water for birds is to get a birdbath. Your local garden supply store should have a large variety of birdbaths available. If you are pinching pennies, you can also make one yourself out of a garbage can lid. It serves the same purpose and birds really don't discern between the attractive birdbath, from the trash can lid you have on the ground. However, there are many very elaborate baths you can purchase from ones that regulate the temperature of the water and some offer a regular flow of fresh water.
Keep in mind that birds like shallow water. If the water is to deep, they start to feel in danger. The ideal height of water is 2-3 inches. Remember to change it every few days as water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes and they will lay eggs in your birdbath.
The bottom surface of your birdbath should be rough, not smooth. This gives the bird good traction. You might want to consider putting a few large rocks in there to allow smaller birds to perch.
Another method is to provide a farm pond. It is a small pond, which can be stocked with fish. A great advantage to this is that you will attract fish eating birds, like Herons. It is also easy to maintain. By planting bushes around the pond, you will attract even more birds as birds love to nest and hide in such brush.
Whatever method you choose, you will find more wild birds stopping in for a 'drink' everyday. Just sit back, relax and enjoy the view!
