Water supplies can range from traditional stone or plastic bird baths, to automated sprayers, which only activate when a bird is present. The latter are great when water use is a concern. There are also many heated bird baths available, but these require a minimal amount of electricity.

It is important, when providing water for wild birds, that you keep in mind the potability (or usability) of the water you are supplying. You need to make sure that the water remains reasonably fresh, and things like algae, bugs, and other unhealthy items do not become a problem. Dripper type bird bath are an excellent choice for reason.

Foods you supply for wild birds can include suet cakes and bricks, to loose seeds, and even live bugs. Again, it generally depends on the breed of bird you are attracting or want to supply. It is a good idea to study the habits of these birds through books, word of mouth, or other sources.

When thinking of safe haven as a necessary supply for wild birds, it is important to keep in mind any potential dangers for the birds you are attracting. Feeders and water supplies should be not easily accessible to other animals (cats, etc.), and small children. Wild birds may even make the bird house their nesting place for their young, which makes it all the more important to ensure that it is a safe haven.

Another potential problem to consider is “poaching” by other animals, mainly squirrels and bird breeds which may be less desirable to you. Many companies specialize in bird baths and feeders which inhibit access to squirrels, cats, and other small animals.

It is also to remember that, though they are wild, there is the potential that birds can become overly dependent on the supplies you provide for them. This can be detrimental in the event that you move, or are otherwise unable to provide them, especially if you live in an area where climate may play a factor in the birds’ ability to find food and water otherwise.

A good rule of thumb is that the more necessary supplies you provide for wild birds, the more necessary they become for them.