Our gardens may have already succumbed to the drought and heat but wildlife could still use our attention. A bit of water and some seeds can make a difference. June is the most active month for birds as nestlings become fledglings, then juveniles on their way to being international flyers, for those that migrate, in a few short months. The best birdbaths are shallow dishes with very gradual rough textured slopes so clumsy fledglings don't slip. In this hot wind the water needs to be freshened almost every day. An established well maintained birdbath is very enjoyable to birds and birders.

This young Black Crested Titmouse will be a year round resident

 Chickadees and Golden Cheeked Warblers can be attracted by spraying water into shrubs like the mountain laurel. The green waxy leaves provide good cover and hold water long enough for birds to drink and rub themselves in a refreshing wet leaf bath. Here is link to clip of Goldencheeks that were attracted in this manner, although the bush is a False Indigo. https://picasaweb.google.com/Sashapaco/2011_06#5615543353009443282  Singing Singing in the background is the loopy Summer Tanager, featured in a post last year.