It didn't interfere with other bird species, and it allowed house sparrows to feed on spillage under the feeder, a possible attraction to some shy bird species that may rely on the wary house sparrow to signal danger. If you should decide to add lines, think about the potential effects in relation to your goals and bird feeding situation. And consider that the hoop device, without lines, deterred only house sparrows and allowed other birds to come and feed normally. A dirty bird is not happy and neither is a thirsty one. Providing a water source year-round attracts birds for drinking and bathing, and results in fascinating scenes of bird behavior at the bird bath.
Clean feathers insulate better, and bathing helps birds keep parasites down.
Many bird baths are available for purchase, and substitutes can be made from large clay saucers, upside-down garbage can lids, or similar containers. These can be encircled with rocks or small logs to increase their aesthetic appeal. Bird baths should be about 1 to 3 inches deep, dull or neutral in color, and not easily tipped. They should have a roughened bottom so birds have a foothold. They can be placed on the ground or elevated a few feet, and, as with bird feeders, should be in a somewhat open area but with cover within about 10 to 20 feet.