Page 7 - IFV September Issue 2025

Estate News

Water Provision Other factors to consider when providing water:
Much like bird feeders, birdbaths come in a variety of shapes/ Bird baths/ponds/water features, should ideally have sloping
sizes, with their associated pros and cons. edges, allowing birds/insects/amphibians/reptiles easy access
We may be inclined to think that smaller shallower pools/ and exits (should they fall in). Large rocks can be placed in
baths will be easier to maintain, compared to larger deeper deeper sections of water bodies, allowing birds and flying
bodies of water. The opposite is in fact true. insects the opportunity to land on them and drink.
Shallow wide baths/pools warm up quicker, leading to Water should be placed in quiet, secluded spots in the
high evaporation rates, high algal growth. Shallow pools/ garden, ideally in the shade (reducing evaporation rates) near
baths may also fill up quicker with dead leaves, making them areas where birds can perch, before approaching. Areas with
unfavourable drinking spots and require more frequent many trees/shrubs, provide birds and others with a sense of
cleaning. security and are generally more attractive to wildlife.
Deeper baths/pools/ponds, especially those with flowing
water (such as a water feature) on the other hand, warm a lot Final note
slower, leading to slower evaporation and algal growth rates. The above article gives some guidelines of the provision
In larger bodies of water where aquatic plants are present, of food and water mainly for birds and insects. While small
fallen leaf litter is readily broken down, providing nutrients mammals, such as Yellow mongoose, Steenbok, Porcupine
(especially nitrates) to plants and make them more attractive and others are present on the estate, I advise that residents
to birds. do not feed them. Feeding wild mammals, can quickly lead
A combination of indigenous flowering plants (mainly to dependence on humans and behavioural changes, to the
aloes), bird feeders and a water feature, attracting loads of detriment of the animals. A supplementary feeding program
wildlife in the estate. Note the planted dead tree, an excellent (run by estate management) is currently in place for these.
spot for birds to perch on before approaching the bird feeders/ The estate gardens/parks and resident verges are looking
water feature. spectacular, attracting loads of wildlife!

The Villager • September 2025 • 5