When it comes to providing water for birds, the container you choose can make a big difference. The right bird waterer will keep the water clean and free from dirt, debris and algae while making it easy for birds to access and drink from it. There are a few key factors to consider when selecting the best water container for birds in your backyard.
Location
Where you place the bird waterer is the first important consideration. It should be located in an open area of your yard that gets some shade during the hottest parts of the day. Place it near trees, shrubs or other plants that provide cover for birds. This allows them to quickly dart out, get a drink and return to the safety of the foliage.
Elevate the birdbath or water container at least a few feet off the ground. This helps prevent predators like cats from being able to ambush the birds. Hanging bird waterers from tree branches or posts works great for keeping them up off the ground. Just be sure it’s not too high or the birds won’t be able to reach it.
Avoid placing the bird waterer right up against a wall or structure. Having it a few feet out in the open allows birds to approach and land on it safely from any direction.
Size
When it comes to bird water containers, bigger is often better. Larger bird baths or water features allow more birds to drink and bathe at the same time. Aim for a container that can hold at least 2 to 3 inches of water.
The diameter of the container matters too. Ideally it should be at least 15-24 inches across. This gives birds enough room to perch on the edges comfortably and splash around.
Depth
The ideal depth for a bird water container is between 1 to 3 inches. This provides enough water for birds to sip, splash and bathe without being too deep. Place rocks, pebbles or bricks in the bottom of the container to help maintain the right water depth.
Shallow bird baths also prevent mosquitoes from being able to breed in the water. Mosquito larvae need at least 4 inches of still water depth in order to survive.
Material
Bird water containers come in a variety of different materials:
- Plastic – Affordable and lightweight, but can fade and degrade over time. Look for UV-resistant plastic for longevity.
- Concrete – Heavier and more durable than plastic. Can be decorated or painted. Sealing regularly will prevent staining.
- Ceramic – Attractive glazed surfaces that are easy to clean. Prone to cracking if exposed to freezing temperatures when water is present.
- Metal – Long-lasting but can heat up excessively in direct sun. Look for rust-resistant metals.
- Glass – Transparent to allow easy monitoring of water level. Risk of breakage.
- Composite – Made from mixed materials like resin, fiberglass or polymers. Combines durability with lighter weight.
The material you choose comes down to aesthetics, durability and budget. Make sure any paints or sealants used are non-toxic for birds.
Design
The design of the bird bath or waterer plays a key role in both attracting birds and keeping the water clean. Look for these helpful design elements:
- Shape – A round, oval or bowl-shaped basin allows birds to drink from any direction.
- Shallow sides – Gentle slopes let birds walk into the water easily. Steep sides make access difficult.
- Textured bottom – Rough textures help grip birds’ feet and prevent slipping.
- Perches – Having perches, rocks or ledges inside gives birds places to stand and drink without getting fully wet.
- Water movement – Fountains, drippers and misters that keep water moving help prevent stagnation and mosquito breeding.
- Drains – Having a drain plug or outlet on the bottom makes cleaning and emptying the bath a breeze.
Also consider adding an aquatic net or mesh cover to help keep leaves, debris and pests out of the water.
Elevated vs. Ground-Level
Both elevated water containers and ground-level bird baths have their advantages:
Elevated bird baths:
- Prevent cats and other predators from ambushing birds
- Minimize splashing that can muddy nearby surfaces
- Allow you to place them on patios, decks, or anywhere off the ground
- May require getting a ladder to access for cleaning and filling
Ground-level bird baths:
- Typically larger and easier for multiple birds to use
- Don’t require as much effort to fill and maintain water level
- Can attract pests and cause muddy splatter on surfaces
- Require wildlife-friendly ground preparation
Choosing between elevated and ground bird baths comes down to space constraints and personal preference. Just be sure to follow proper placement guidelines for either option.
Cleaning and Maintenance
To keep birds coming back, your water container needs to be well maintained and kept clean. Here are some tips:
- Empty and scrub clean with a bleach solution at least once a week.
- Use a stiff brush to remove any algae or mineral deposits.
- Rinse well before refilling.
- Refresh the water 2-3 times a week or when it appears dirty.
- Remove dropped leaves, branches and other debris daily.
- Consider using a bird bath cleaning solution to control bacteria and algae buildup.
Take steps to prevent the water from freezing in winter if you live in a cold climate. Add a bird bath heater, de-icer or aerator to keep the water usable for birds during freezing temperatures.
Conclusion
When set up and maintained properly, bird waterers provide vital hydration and cooling for backyard birds. Look for durable containers with a large surface area, shallow depth and clean water. Position it in an open location safe from predators. Providing fresh, clean drinking and bathing water will attract a diversity of wild birds to visit your yard.
