There are a few different types of bird toys that bob up and down in water to allow birds to drink from them. The most common ones are plastic bird baths, glass water globes, and floating bird waterers. These toys provide an entertaining and enriching way for pet birds to access water in their cages or aviaries. The bobbing and moving action can help encourage picky birds to drink more water, which is important for their health. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at these fun bird water toys and how they work to keep birds hydrated.
Plastic Bird Baths
Plastic bird baths are a popular style of drinking water toy for birds. They consist of a plastic basin or bowl attached to a plastic arm with a counterweight. The arm is balanced so that when a bird lands on the edge of the bowl, their weight causes the bowl to tip downwards and water pours out into the basin for the bird to drink. But as soon as the bird flies away, the counterweight causes the bowl to swing back up into position, ready for the next bird to trigger it. The bobbing up and down motion catches birds’ attention and entices them to visit the bath more often to drink and play.
These plastic drinking bird baths come in a variety of cute designs, shapes, and colors. Some look like adorable bird houses or cottages with the dispenser disguised as a roof. Others are shaped like flowers or mushrooms. The basin collects any spilled water so it doesn’t make a mess in the cage. Plastic bird bath toys are affordable and durable, with parts that can easily be cleaned in the dishwasher. Just be sure to get one sized appropriately for the species of birds you own.
Advantages of Plastic Bird Bath Water Toys
– Inexpensive compared to other bird waterer options
– Durable plastic construction holds up well to bird use
– Attracts attention with bright colors and moving parts
– Easy to clean in the dishwasher
– Fun nature-themed designs like cottages or mushrooms
– Dispenses fresh water with each use
– Available in small sizes for finches up to large for parrots
Disadvantages of Plastic Bird Baths
– Plastic may degrade over time after prolonged UV light exposure
– Not as visually appealing as glass water globes
– Water can spill out and make a mess if tipped too far
– May need frequent refilling depending on number of birds
– Can harbor bacteria if not cleaned regularly
Glass Water Globes
Glass water globes that bob up and down are another interesting style of bird waterer. They consist of a large glass orb or sphere attached underneath an overturned glass bowl. The globe hangs down into a basin of water while the bowl stays dry above. When a bird lands on the edge of the bowl to drink, its weight pushes the edge of the bowl down into the water. This causes the glass globe to bob up and fill with water. As the bird drinks, the globe sinks back down and the water drains out through the tube back into the basin. Birds seem fascinated by the magical appearance of the swirling water in these glass globes.
The globes come in varying decorative shapes like ornaments or jewelry. The glass construction looks more elegant and modern than plastic baths. While the glass does make the globes more fragile, they are surprisingly study if installed properly. Owners should choose a sturdy mounting bracket and keep them safely out of reach when not in use. The glass sphere and bowl are easy to hand wash. Just be aware that the sphere may need frequent refills since it holds a limited amount of water compared to baths.
Advantages of Glass Water Globes
– Visually interesting for birds to watch
– Glass construction is more hygienic than plastic
– Dispenses fresh water with each use
– No loud sound of dripping water like other dispensers
– Sophisticated ornamental designs fit home decor
– Sturdy mounting bracket keeps securely installed
Disadvantages of Glass Water Globes
– More expensive than plastic bath options
– Glass makes them prone to breaking if installed wrong
– Only holds small amount of water at a time
– Needs frequent refilling and cleaning by owner
– Condensation on the globe needs to be wiped off
Floating Bird Waterers
Floating bird waterers are a third style of bobbing bird drinking toy. They consist of a plastic jug or container that floats vertically in the water. The jug has a small opening at the top for dispensing water and often has a funnel shape to catch any drips. The floating mechanism keeps the opening consistently at the water surface level. When a bird lands on the perch attached to the jug, the extra weight presses the opening down into the water, allowing water to fill the dispenser. The jug automatically bobs back up when the bird flies off to close the opening and prevent any spills.
Floating dispensers are useful for keeping larger volumes of water available for birds. Their simple design makes them easy to refill and clean. Many feature a wide base to keep them stable in bird baths or water dishes. The opening and perch may be sized for different bird species. Make sure to monitor the water levels as these dispensers can empty quickly with multiple thirsty birds. Hanging floating dispensers by a chain allows them to be used in bird cages.
Advantages of Floating Bird Waterers
– Holds more water than baths or globes before refills needed
– Perch provides convenient access for drinking
– Fun bobbing motion attracts bird’s interest
– Wide base keeps upright and stable in water
– Adjustable hanger allows use in cages
– Caps prevent water spills while refilling
Disadvantages of Floating Bird Waterers
– Made of plastic that can break over time
– Need to check water levels frequently
– May tip over if bird perches on edge
– Can still spill if not refilled properly
– Floating parts may become moldy if not cleaned
Considerations When Choosing a Style
There are a few things to keep in mind when deciding which style of bobbing bird water toy is best for your birds. Think about factors like:
– How many birds need access to the waterer? More birds will require a larger reservoir.
– What size are the birds?The perch and water opening should accommodate them.
– Is it for a cage or aviary? Hanging dispensers work well in cages while baths and globes are often freestanding.
– How often are you willing to refill it? Baths and globes may need more frequent topping off than floating jugs.
– Do your birds tend to be messy? A style with a water collection basin helps avoid spills.
– How important is ease of cleaning? Plastic baths can go right in the dishwasher.
– What price range feels comfortable? Globes tend to be more expensive than plastic options.
Trying out a few different waterer designs may be needed to find the right one that your flock enjoys using. Birds can have personal preferences, so provide a few options to ensure they stay well-hydrated.
Setting Up and Using Bobbing Bird Water Toys
Here are some tips for getting your new bobbing bird water toy set up and ready for use:
– Carefully unpack all pieces and check for any damage during shipping.
– Rinse all parts with water before first use to remove dust or residues from manufacturing.
– Review the instruction manual and diagram to understand how the parts fit together.
– Choose a suitable location that allows birds easy access but won’t get knocked over or interfered with.
– Mount or attach the toy securely using provided hardware. Make sure any hangers are closed tightly.
– For baths and floating jugs, add fresh drinking water to the specified fill line. Use room temperature filtered water.
– Check that the toy bobs up and down smoothly when pressed without any leaks or obstructions.
– Show your birds where the new water toy is located. They may be curious about the novel motion and sounds.
– Let your birds use the waterer under supervision at first to confirm they understand how to operate it.
– Change the water and rinse/disinfect components every few days to keep clean for your birds.
Following these tips will ensure your bobbing bird bath, globe, or dispenser gets utilized properly right from the start. Check it daily and make adjustments to the setup as needed based on your birds’ preferences. Proper hydration is vital to your flock’s health, so providing fun water toys can make a big difference.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
While bobbing bird water toys are designed to be reliable, occasional issues may arise. Here are some common problems and solutions:
Problem: Toy is leaking water
Potential solutions:
– Check for cracks in plastic parts or globe
– Examine junction points for split seals
– Make sure hanging hardware is tightened fully
– Remove buildup blocking water flow
Problem: Toy won’t bob up and down
Potential solutions:
– Ensure toy is mounted on a level surface
– Check for obstructions impeding motion
– Verify proper counterweight balance
– Make sure basin has enough water
– Examine components for damage or wear
Problem: Birds aren’t using the toy
Potential solutions:
– Try relocating to more visible or accessible spot
– Consider a style more suited to your birds
– Entice birds by dripping water to demonstrate motion
– Ensure opening or perch isn’t too small
– Clean mineral buildup that may deter use
Problem: Water looks or smells dirty
Potential solutions:
– Change water more frequently
– Rinse all parts with vinegar to kill bacteria
– Brush/wipe debris from joints and crevices
– Disinfect with bird-safe products
– Use filtered water to minimize impurities
Address any issues promptly to restore proper functioning and keep your flock happily hydrated. Refer to the manual or contact the manufacturer if problems persist.
Conclusion
Bobbing bird water toys provide an engaging way for pet birds to stay hydrated. The variety of plastic baths, glass globes, and floating dispensers gives owners options to find the style their flock will enjoy using. Setting the toys up properly and maintaining cleanliness are important to ensure birds use them. The bobbing and swinging motion makes drinking water entertaining while keeping your birds healthy. If issues occur, there are troubleshooting steps you can try before needing to replace parts or the entire toy. With a fun water toy, you can relax knowing your birds are getting enough fluids while also being stimulated mentally by the movement and sounds.
