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The Dangers of Pedestal Style Bird Baths

Making It Grow Minute

  Hello Gardeners, I'm Amanda McNulty with Clemson Extension and Making it Grow. Most of us remember to keep fresh water for our dogs and cats, but other creatures also benefit from a handy place to get a sip. Traditional concrete pedestal bird baths are attractive to birds as they are up in the air and a good view of any danger. But these garden features can be hazardous for children. Toddlers are curious about everything and of course want to look into this tantalizing basin. There have been tragic cases when the basin and pedestal have fallen over as a child climbs or pulls on it. If you have a pedestal basin, consider placing it on the ground or on a slightly raised tree stump or such. These are best placed in full sun away from any overhanging branches. Make sure you choose a place close enough to a hose that you can scoot it out and replace the water daily.

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Amanda McNulty is a Clemson University Extension Horticulture agent and the host of South Carolina ETV’s Making It Grow! gardening program. She studied horticulture at Clemson University as a non-traditional student. “I’m so fortunate that my early attempts at getting a degree got side tracked as I’m a lot better at getting dirty in the garden than practicing diplomacy!” McNulty also studied at South Carolina State University and earned a graduate degree in teaching there.