For lots of backyard habitats, the most important missing item is water. Whether it's a birdbath, a mud puddle, a water fountain or a small pond, it's what wildlife likes.

Here are the basics for a simple birdbath:

1. You can buy a birdbath from a store, or use something that is saucer shaped, like the lid to a trash can or a clay pot saucer;


2. Make sure the water's not too deep - one to two inches is good;


3. It should have a rough surface so birds can cling to it;


4. The water has to be changed every day or two, or it will likely start to grow algae, or become a breeding site for mosquitoes. It helps to scrub it out to keep it clean.


5. It needs to be placed close enough to a tree or bush that birds can escape from the bath to the bush, but not so close that a predator (such as a cat) can hide and leap on the unsuspecting bird as it's bathing or drinking.


6. Watch the water! It may take a few days, but birds will start to visit soon.