Getting birds to come to your bird bath can transform an ordinary backyard into a lively ecosystem filled with the sights and sounds of nature. However, attracting feathered friends to a new bird bath often requires some strategic planning and effort. Follow these tips to learn how to make your bird bath irresistible to local birds.
Why Do Birds Use Bird Baths?
Birds require water not only for drinking, but also for feather maintenance and cooling down on hot days. During dry seasons or in arid environments, fresh clean water can be scarce. A well-placed bird bath can serve as a little oasis, providing birds with the water they need to thrive.
Some key reasons birds use bird baths:
- Bathing – Birds bathe in water to clean their feathers of dirt, parasites, and excess oils. Wetting down their plumage helps maintain feather integrity and insulating properties.
- Drinking – Birds need to drink water daily to avoid dehydration. Bird baths provide a convenient water source.
- Cooling Off – Bird baths allow birds to cool their body temperature on hot days by wetting down their skin or even taking a quick dip.
Installing a bird bath designed specifically for birds, with shallow basins and graduated edges they can perch on, can help attract them to water on your property.
Placement of Your Bird Bath
One of the most important factors in getting birds to visit a new bird bath is proper placement:
Location
Situate your bird bath in an open area of your yard that is easily accessible to birds. Avoid crowded areas with dense foliage or vegetation that could conceal predators. Birds will want a clear view of their surroundings as they drink and bathe.
Elevation
Elevate your birdbath on a pedestal stand or place it on a slightly raised surface. Bird baths placed directly on the ground are more vulnerable to being frequented by cats, dogs, and other predators. Elevation provides birds a safer vantage point.
Proximity to Trees & Shelter
While you want an open space around the bath itself, having it near trees, shrubs, or other structures gives birds a place to perch and scan for danger before approaching. These shelters also provide escape cover if needed.
Avoid Disturbances
Pick a quiet spot away from high traffic areas. Bird baths placed right next to patios, walkways and other human activities will see less visitors.
Bird Bath Features That Attract Birds
Installing a bird bath is just the first step. Making it enticing and functional for visiting birds involves some special features:
Shallow Water
Birds need only an inch or two of water to drink and bathe. Deep bird baths are hazardous as birds can become wet and chilled. Opt for shallow basins.
Textured Bottom
Tiny textured patterns or roughened surfaces on the basin floor provide footing and prevent slipping as birds move about the bath.
Graduated Sides
Gently sloping edges give birds easy access to step into the water. Vertical drop-off edges make it hard for birds to utilize the bath.
Dripping/Misting Function
Adding a dripper or mister provides enticing water motion. The sight and sounds attract birds from afar.
Perches
Perches around the rim allow birds to conveniently land and survey the area before entering the bird bath.
Bird Bath Setup Tips
Proper setup and maintenance are also key to creating an appealing and functional bird bath. Follow these tips:
- Use a garden hose to periodically flush the bath and remove any debris or algae.
- Fully empty and clean the bath with mild soap and water every few weeks to prevent disease transmission.
- Refill the bird bath daily with fresh, clean water.
- Adjust water levels seasonally. Birds need less water during cooler weather.
- Use a heater in winter to prevent ice formation.
- Keep it well away from windows to prevent bird strikes.
Landscaping to Invite Birds
Making some simple additions and improvements to your yard’s landscaping can help attract even more birds:
- Add native plants that provide seeds and berries.
- Leave dead trees intact for nesting sites and perches.
- Plant fruiting trees like crabapples.
- Include nut and acorn producing trees like oaks.
- Grow sunflowers – birds eat the seeds.
- Add plants with good nesting cover like evergreens.
- Provide nest boxes and shelves for shelter.
Focus on providing supplemental food, water, and shelter sources and your landscape will entice birds to visit.
Preventing Bird Bath Problems
Take some proactive measures to avoid common bird bath issues:
Deter Predators
Fencing, obstructive planting beds, and bath elevation can restrict access by predators like cats. Motion activated sprinklers also deter prowling pets.
Prevent Drowning
Very young birds may tumble into deep baths. Add ramps or stones so they can climb out.
Deter Bees & Wasps
Add a few drops of vegetable oil to the water. The oil film keeps insects from getting water traction.
Avoid Overcrowding
Limit total birds by offering multiple small baths instead of one large one if needed. Aggression can occur with overcrowding.
Keep It Clean
Dirty water can spread diseases between birds. Change water and clean baths frequently.
Prevent Freezing
Use a bird bath heater, pump, or aerator to keep water flowing and prevent icing over in winter.
Best Bird Bath Materials
Bird baths come in a variety of materials. Look for ones designed specifically to be safe and attractive for birds:
Concrete
Concrete bird baths are attractive but somewhat heavy. Ensure they have adequate drainage holes.
Metal
Wrought iron, copper, and cast aluminum baths add a decorative element. Metal conducts heat well for winter bathing.
Plastic
Plastic baths are lightweight, durable, and affordable. Look for ultraviolet-resistant plastic that won’t fade.
Ceramic & Pottery
Glazed ceramic and pottery bird baths have an artistic flair. Ensure any surface glazes are non-toxic for birds.
Stone
Natural stone baths blend into garden environments well. Granite, limestone, and sandstone offer texture.
Glass & Crystal
Glass or leaded crystal baths have an elegant look. Tempered, reinforced glass that resist cracks is best.
Monitor and Enjoy Your Bird Visitors
It may take some time for birds to discover your new bath and get accustomed to using it. Be patient. To get the most enjoyment:
- Position a comfortable chair with a good view of the bath.
- Keep binoculars and a bird book handy for easy reference.
- Maintain a journal recording dates and types of birds visiting.
- Supplement bird bath time with other feeding and water sources.
- Share the experience – get children involved in observing your new wildlife.
With the right birdbath setup and location, plus some landscape improvements to provide food, shelter, and nesting sites, you’ll soon enjoy the splashing activity of your feathered visitors. The serene addition of a backyard bird bath can make your garden come alive!
Conclusion
Attracting birds to a new bird bath requires careful placement, the right features and accessories, ongoing maintenance, and some landscaping improvements to make your yard bird-friendly. With strategic planning, some trial and error, and patience, you can create a thriving birdbath that welcomes a variety of beautiful and interesting birds to your outdoor space. Monitoring your new wildlife visitors will quickly become a cherished daily ritual.