I have never had a problem with birds, but have
worried about the local cats. I C clamp a board that is covered with
carpet or an old piece of Nomad brand matting to the side of the tank.
This gives a ladder for the cats in case they fall in. When my Dad was in
Florida, he had problems with lizards drowning in his pool. He did the
same thing with success.
Ed
Ed & Wendy Hauser 2994 Mittower
Road Victor, MT 59875