If you build a pond, they will come.

Owning a pond has the added advantage of creating a oasis for a myriad of bird life you might not otherwise see in your backyard.

Many birds visit backyard ponds during their migratory flights to other destinations, and some of these beautiful birds you'll only see for a few short days each year before they move on. Be sure to have a bird book and a pair of binoculars handy! You may wonder why your fish contracted flukes when you haven't introduced any new ones lately, or why you now have snails in your pond.

Birds could well be the culprit, but it's a small price to pay for being graced with their presence. Birds visit to grab a quick drink or take a refreshing bath, and many local birds will come to depend on your pond as their own little summer haven. Fall and winter haven, for that matter--most local varieties don't seem to mind taking a Swedish ice bath!