When setting up a bird bath, the most basic component is water. However, there are some additional things to consider when trying to create an optimal environment for visiting birds.
What kind of water should go in a bird bath?
The water you put in a bird bath should be fresh and clean. Do not use dirty water, stagnant water or water that has been chemically treated. Here are some guidelines for the best water to use:
- Use fresh tap water – Tap water is fine in most cases. Allow the water to sit out for 24 hours before using to allow the chlorine and fluoride to dissipate. This will make it safer for birds.
- Avoid distilled water – Distilled water lacks the minerals birds need. Unless you add electrolytes, avoid using distilled water.
- Change it frequently – Change the water every 2-3 days at a minimum. This prevents the buildup of dangerous molds and bacteria.
- Remove droppings – Scoop out any bird droppings daily to keep the water clean.
In most climates, basic tap water that is refreshed often is perfectly fine for a bird bath. The key is keeping the water clean and preventing the growth of harmful microorganisms.
What temperature water should be used?
During hot summer months, birds will appreciate cooler water in the 70°F range. In winter, you can provide bath water that is room temperature or slightly warmed between 60-70°F.
A few options to provide proper temperature water:
- Add ice – In summer, add some ice cubes to chill the water down. As they melt, this keeps water cool.
- Use solar power – Solar-powered bird baths draw heat from the sun to prevent water from overheating.
- Use a heater – Submersible heaters can gently warm bird bath water in winter months.
- Bring indoor water outdoors – To warm water in winter, bring hot water from indoors outside in a watering can.
The most important factor is keeping the water from freezing solid in winter. Heating to just above freezing will give birds access when natural sources are frozen over.
Should you add anything other than water?
Plain water is fine, but there are some additional things you can add to create a more enticing bird bath:
- Sugar water – Adding a small amount of white sugar, honey or agave syrup provides birds an energy boost.
- Apple cider vinegar – A few tablespoons of apple cider vinegar mimics the acidic environment birds have in their natural baths. It can also deter pests.
- Sea salt – Uniodized sea salt adds beneficial minerals and electrolytes lost when flying.
- Epsom salt – A pinch of Epsom salt can soothe sore muscles and feet.
If adding any supplements, mix well to dissolve fully in the water. Avoid adding more than needed. Too many additives can make the water unpalatable.
What kind of bird bath is best?
The design of the birdbath itself also influences how attractive it is to wild birds:
- Shallow water 1-3 inches deep. This allows birds to stand and drink or bathe easily.
- Textured bottom provides grip. Texture like pebbles prevents slipping with smooth basins.
- Gradual sloping sides for easy access. A bowl shape with sloping sides allows multiple birds to use at once.
- Elevated above ground. Position 3 feet or higher off the ground to deter predators.
- Near trees or shrubs. Birds feel safer with foliage cover nearby they can escape to.
Placing bird baths a safe distance from windows is also important. This prevents window collisions as birds fly back and forth.
How often should you clean a bird bath?
To keep birds safe, clean birdbaths at least every 2-3 days. Follow these steps:
- Drain old water completely.
- Scrub the bowl with a brush and non-toxic cleaner to remove residue.
- Rinse thoroughly before refilling.
- Refill with fresh water.
Clean more frequently in hot weather or if algae and mold develop quickly. Bleach can be used for a deep cleaning periodically to kill dangerous bacteria.
Should birdbaths be cleaned daily?
Cleaning daily is ideal to reduce disease risk. However, every 2-3 days is usually sufficient. Here are some signs it’s time for a cleaning:
- Cloudy, green water.
- Visible dirt or debris
- Algae growing on sides
- Bird droppings accumulating
- Leaves or insects in water
- Stagnant water smell
In freezing winter weather when baths aren’t used, monthly cleanings are enough. Clean thoroughly before putting back out in spring.
What diseases can dirty bird baths spread?
Improperly cleaned birdbaths can unfortunately spread some very serious diseases. Some to be aware of include:
- Avian flu – The highly contagious bird flu virus can survive for long periods in water sources.
- Trichomonosis – This parasitic illness causes deadly lesions in the mouths and throats of infected birds.
- Aspergillosis – A fungal infection that often spreads at dirty feeders and bird baths.
- Conjunctivitis – Bacteria that cause pink eye can lead to blindness in afflicted birds.
By changing water frequently, birds enjoy a safe place to drink, splash and preen their feathers.
What basic maintenance does a bird bath require?
For a safely functioning bird bath, the basic maintenance tasks include:
- Daily removal of droppings
- Refilling water levels as needed
- Washing the basin every 2-3 days
- Monthly thorough scrubbing
- Changing water if it becomes dirty or cloudy
- Repositioning if water is splashing out
- Cold weather winterization
For bird baths with pumps, ensure the pump is working properly and filters are cleaned. Check for cracks where water could leak through as well.
How do you keep a bird bath from freezing?
To keep water liquid in below freezing temperatures:
- Use a bird bath heater – Submersible heaters can maintain above freezing temperatures.
- Try a heated basin – Heated bird baths have a heating element built into the basin.
- Use an immersion warmer – Handheld water warming devices can raise temp a few degrees.
- Add a bubbler – Moving water is harder to freeze. A solar-powered bubbler circulates water.
- Bring water in at night – Take birdbaths indoors overnight when below freezing.
Positioning baths out of the wind and adding insulation around the sides also slows freezing. Providing open water year round helps birds survive in harsh winter conditions.
Should you leave a bird bath out in winter?
Bird baths can remain outside all winter but do require some special precautions in freezing weather:
- Heat the water or use a deicer to prevent freezing solid.
- Ensure the basin is fully drained between fillings so water doesn’t freeze inside.
- Install a bubbler or circulator to keep water moving.
- Insulate the sides or position out of wind to slow freezing.
- Provide fresh water 1-2 times per day since small volumes freeze faster.
- Take indoor overnight if forecast is below 0°F to prevent freezing.
With proper care, birdbaths can be a critical winter water source when natural sources are frozen and birds are under stress.
What birds use bird baths?
Many different species will visit bird baths for drinking and bathing. Some of the most common visitors include:
- Songbirds – Chickadees, finches, sparrows
- Doves and pigeons
- Woodpeckers
- Crows
- Jays
- Thrushes
- Wrens
- Warblers
- Orioles
- Cardinals
- Bluebirds
- Robins
Bird baths attract a diversity of species when positioned properly. Allowing spaces for perching nearby provides birds a place to preen after bathing.
Conclusion
Setting up a bird bath requires more than just adding water. With some simple maintenance like changing water regularly, cleaning the basin, and adjusting for temperatures, bird baths can provide essential hydration and bathing opportunities that promote bird health and diversity. Be sure to follow cleaning best practices to prevent spread of diseases between visiting birds.
