How do you clean this system? Do the pumps need cleaned with all the bird stuff going through? I like the idea of a shady spot to eliminate algae growth.
Just spent 4 hours today cleaning one pondless multi pond feature that was chock full of bird stuff that caused the pump to clog. That included scrubbing the algae of the rocks too.
Suggestions welcome although we will be shutting down our system at the end of September until next March as we will be gone over the winter.
Stef Neis
Whidbey Island
Sent from my iPad
On Sep 1, 2024, at 4:31 PM, Steve Hampton via Tweeters wrote:
All,
Re: the discussion of backyard ponds and fountains, I'm a big fan. They bring in thrushes, warblers, vireos, and others that are less attracted to seed and bird feeders.
I built mine for under $100 using a couple pumps, plastic planter bottoms (I've used garbage can lids), and a $25 plastic tub -- and then decorated with rocks and wood. The key is the sound of falling water and a shallow pool they can bathe in.
I prefer to put mine in a vegetated grotto, near bushes with a tree overhead. The birds tend to come in vertically, from above, slowly working their way down. Also, sunlight causes algae problems.
Most of these pics are from a pond I built near Davis, CA, but my current pond is pictured as well, and is very similar.
good birding,
Steve Hampton
Port Townsend, WA (qatáy)