Two years ago we added a water feature to the backyard. It’s near our patio, where we spend considerable time in the summer. I never tire of the sight and sounds of the flowing water. 
We often refer to it as the “pond.” It’s home to five goldfish. We don’t feed them but they seem to find plenty to eat and they have grown from about one to four inches long. We’re glad their diet includes mosquito eggs.
The pond is used by birds year around and it’s especially popular during hot summer days. Doves often come for a drink, while robins, cardinals, and grackles frequently come to bathe.
It’s fun to watch them from the kitchen window as they use their wings to do a lot of splashing. This robin (Turdus migratorius) certainly seemed to enjoy its bath.
We see occasional dragon flies and damsel flies, and other insects visit now and then. The pond adds another dimension to the backyard and I like sharing it with our various critters.
The lullaby of running water – HEAVENLY! – and all the wildlife that comes to
drink and take a bath (plus serving as a misquito egg eradicating station) makes
the pond sound like a perfect patio companion. One question: what does one do
with the goldfish come winter?
Beth. as to goldfish in winter, I do nothing and they seem to do just fine.
Who did your water feature and do u live near Louisville kentucky? Barbie
Barbie, I live in Lexington. Larry Johnson did our water feature and did a great job.
Betty, the pond is beeautiful!
Thanks, Keli. It certainly adds to our enjoyment of the backyard.
Delightful, Betty!
Thank you!
No Zebra Swallowtals yet – do have Spice Bush and Tiger Swallowtails but all wildlife much reduced this year, most sorry to say.
Glad to hear you have Spicebush and Tigers. I’ve seen Tigers in the yard along with Red Admirals and American Ladies. Still watching and waiting for the others.