Don’t Forget to Water Your Birds

The past two months have been dry ones here at Sutton Place. We haven’t had a drop of rain, and the temperature has approached or exceeded 100 degrees most days. I’m sure many of you are experiencing the same thing.

When it’s like this, you’ll often find me near a window where I can watch the variety of birds visiting the four-level fountain beside our deck. Theresa and I bought it years ago as an anniversary gift for ourselves, and we’ve never regretted that decision.

We keep water in the fountain circulating slowly but continuously with a small pump, and the sound and sparkle of the water as it cascades down the tiers has made it a very popular spot for our feathered friends. From bright red cardinals to cheerful chickadees, they all come to drink, bathe and cool off in the refreshing water.

Water is Crucial

As I watch them flit from branch to fountain and back again, it reminds me just how important it is to provide water features like this during the hot, dry months of summer. For birds, finding a consistent and safe water source is crucial. When temperatures rise, natural water sources can dry up quickly, leaving birds searching for hydration and a place to escape the heat.

Birds need water not just for drinking but also for bathing. Bathing helps them keep their feathers in good condition, which is essential for flying and insulation. A clean, well-maintained fountain or birdbath gives them a place to splash around and shake off the dust, helping to rid their feathers of parasites and keeping them in tip-top shape.

A Myriad of Visitors

Beyond the practical benefits, adding a water feature to your yard is also a wonderful way to attract a diverse range of bird species. You’ll be amazed at the variety of birds that will visit once they discover a reliable water source. It’s not just the common backyard birds, either. Near the end of summer, you might see migratory species like warblers and vireos stopping by for a quick drink or bath on their journey. Among our everyday visitors have been red-shouldered hawks, families of crows and bluebirds, flocks of doves, robins and house finches, and beautiful summer residents like indigo and painted buntings.

Providing water is a simple yet powerful way to make a big impact. Whether it’s a small birdbath or a multi-level fountain like ours, keeping the water clean and fresh will ensure the birds keep coming back. In the end, the sight of birds splashing and playing in the water adds so much life and joy to our outdoor spaces, making the effort and expense well worth it.

So, as you work on your garden or backyard space, consider adding a water feature for the birds. Not only will you be helping them thrive during the hot, dry months, but you’ll also get to enjoy the daily visits from some of nature’s most beautiful and lively creatures. And trust me, there’s nothing quite like the simple pleasure of watching a bird splash in your fountain on a sweltering summer day.