Water Features

Types of Garden Wildlife Water Features

Explore our range of wildlife-friendly water features, from cost effective to premium, to bring movement and calm to any space. Whether you prefer a clean, contemporary finish or a natural look that blends into the planting, there’s a design to suit most preferences. 

• Birdbath bowls: Simple, easy to place on a patio or among plants. Choose stone, ceramic or plastic that will hold water; add pebbles so small animals can stand safely.
  
  
• Water cascading fountain: A self-contained fountain with flowing water that helps deter algae. Great for small spaces that want sound without a full pond.
  
  
• Pondless waterfall: A disappearing stream or waterfalls effect that returns to a hidden reservoir has all the ambience, with less open water (ideal where safety is a priority).
  
  
• Mini wildlife pond: Choose features resembling nature to  hold water, then add oxygenators and soft marginal plants in mesh baskets (use aquatic soil, not compost). The result is a pond that blends seamlessly with the landscape.

Siting & Setup

With a little planning, your wildlife water feature or bird bath can be the beating heart of the garden, an inviting stop where birds, butterflies, frogs, and other visitors can rest, drink, and thrive. 

Consider the following when choosing the perfect spot:

• Choose the spot: Should ideally be visible from the house, on level ground, and partially in the sun so birds can enjoy it and algae is easier to manage.
  
  
• Prepare the base: Firm the area with compacted sand or slabs so the feature sits level.
  
  
• Fill & finish: Fill with rainwater (best) or tap water; add rinsed pebbles and a few logs or stones to create shallow edges and an exit ramp.
  
  
• Power options: Many features run on low-voltage electricity or solar. If you go wired, ensure outdoor-rated cabling and an RCD; for solar, check panel orientation.

Simple Care & Algae Control

Keep your birdbath or water feature fountain looking attractive with a simple care plan: each week, top up the water (it evaporates fast), wipe the rims, and check the pump and filter. 

Once a month, empty and rinse the pool or reservoir, brush away biofilm, and refresh any filter media. To curb algae, set your feature where dappled shade and gently flowing water enhance clarity, remove fallen leaves, and avoid over-feeding fish nearby. These steps work just as well in the backyard as for compact indoor use features.

4 Wildlife-Safe Design Tips

1. Keep at least one shallow zone (2–5 cm) for small birds and pollinators.
   
   
2. Provide an exit route (flat stones, ramp, or textured edge) to protect amphibians and hedgehogs.
   
   
3. Avoid slippery lips like rough pebbles or textured rims improve footing.
   
   
4. For planting, use aquatic soil in mesh baskets; always use rinsed gravel on top to stop clouding. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use tap water, or is rainwater better?

Rainwater is gentler for wildlife and helps reduce limescale, but tap water is fine too. Just fill your fountain and allow a day for chlorine to dissipate before heavy use.

Do I need electricity to run a fountain?

Not always. Solar units are popular. Mains-powered features offer reliable flowing water; if you use mains, ensure outdoor-rated cable and RCD protection.

What’s the easiest way to prevent algae?

Site in light dappled shade, keep the water running, skim debris, and do regular quick rinsed cleans. Avoid nutrient build-up from soil or leaves.

Will a water feature attract frogs and other animals?

Yes, water features tend to invite amphibians and pollinators. Provide an exit route and avoid steep, sheer sides if possible.