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Aside from rocks, and shutting it down, what can I do to make my garden pond safe for birds?

I returned home from walking my dog today to carnage in my otherwise peaceful garden pond. There were two "floating" birds, and one shivering while holding on to the pump's electrical cord. Though obviously distraught, I was able to save the one who held on, however, had to bury his mates. That side, I've looked online, and aside from adding a rock and a water plant for any bathers to hold on to (and yes, from closing it down completely) what other suggestionos do you have? As a nature lover, I already feel terrible, so please no sarcasm. Serious answers only please! For now, the pond is drained and off. Before I open it up again for business, I want to do all that I can to avoid a repeat incident. Thank you kindly.

Public Comments

1. You've pretty well got the best answers. The only other thing I can suggest is a place on the side of your pond that would have a very gentle slope into the water where they can land on dry and wade to the depth of about an inch.
2. First of all, are you sure that you know what happened to the birds? This is an unusual scenario. Do you think that they just "fell in" and drowned?? (Not likely, I'm thinking!!) Could they have been electrocuted by a short in your electric pump?? If you have had your pond for awhile and have had no other problems, I would suspect an electrical short!! The other thing that you might want to try is to make one end slope gently for the "waders". Good Luck!!