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Winter Water Is Important Near Your Bird Feeders

Winter is a difficult time for birds and other wildlife to find water due to freezing, drying up and being covered with snow. Active winter creatures need water as much in winter as they do in summer, in part because of the stress of coping with the weather and scarcity of food and water.

Besides drinking, birds also need to bathe in frosty weather because they must maintain their feathers in peak condition to keep warm. If birds cannot find water, both their flight efficiency and insulation will be impaired, and this will cost them dearly in wasted energy.

A dependable supply of fresh water will even attract to your yard birds that wouldn't ordinarily come to your feeders. A shallow, easy to clean birdbath is best. Several other items may be used; an upside-down garbage can lid or large fry pan will work. Dig a shallow hole in your yard and line it with plastic. Clean your birdbath often and keep it filled with fresh water. At times we change our water a couple of times a day, depending on how many birds are using it.

Keeping winter water from freezing is a major problem. An immersion-style water heater will keep your birdbath unfrozen. We use the "Blue Devil" bird bath heaters. They have lasted through many winters trouble free. Lowe's and PetSmart are supposed to be carrying them or they can be ordered from the manufacturer, the Nelson Co., 3049 12th St. S.W., Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52404. Ph. 310-363-2607. This heater is also advertised in the Bird Watchers Digest. Check the Website http:www.birdwatchersdigest.com. Yakima Co-op also has a 200 watt heater for $30.89, however we have not tried it.

Larry and Doris Robinson