Hummingbirds are delicate little birds that bring joy to backyard birders. With their iridescent feathers and incredible flying abilities, it’s no wonder that people love seeing these tiny creatures visit their gardens. One of the best ways to attract hummingbirds to your yard is by providing a bird bath specifically designed with their needs in mind. But with so many different options available, how do you choose the right kind of bird bath for hummingbirds?
What To Look For In A Hummingbird Bird Bath
There are a few key factors to consider when selecting a bird bath for hummingbirds:
- Size – Hummingbirds are tiny, so look for a very shallow bath depth of 1-2 inches
- Material – Durable plastic or glass materials work best
- Design – Look for a dish style, fountain style, or mister style bath
- Location – Place it in a sunny spot away from bushes or trees
- Water flow – Moving water attracts hummingbirds best
- Maintenance – Daily cleaning prevents buildup of minerals
By keeping these criteria in mind while shopping, you’ll be able to provide an optimal bird bath that hummingbirds will be drawn to.
Dish Style Hummingbird Bird Baths
Dish style bird baths are a simple and effective option for attracting hummingbirds. Here are some top choices:
Pedestal Dish Bird Bath
This style of bird bath features a shallow dish held up on a pedestal base. Look for ones with very shallow dishes about 1-2 inches deep specifically made for hummingbirds. Pedestal style baths often allow for easy cleaning and filling while keeping the water level stable. They provide open access for hummingbirds to bathe and drink.
Deck Rail Dish Bird Bath
For those with decks, a shallow dish style bird bath designed to hang over the deck railing provides a perfect hummingbird bathing solution. Ensure the dish depth is only 1-2 inches and has drainage holes. Locate the bath in an open area of the deck easily accessible for hummingbirds. Rail-mounted dish baths can have a hanger to attach them to the railing or sit securely on the railing.
Ground Dish Bird Bath
Ground-level dish style bird baths are versatile and allow placement anywhere in the yard. Low-profile ground baths feature a shallow dish a few inches off the ground and are suitable for hummingbirds. Position it on a level section of soil and clear away any bushes that could obstruct access. Ground-level dish baths are affordable and easy to install.
Fountain Style Hummingbird Bird Baths
The pleasant trickling sound and moving water of fountain bird baths are excellent for enticing hummingbirds to stop by for a drink or bath. Some top fountain style options include:
Tiered Fountain Bath
A small scaled-down tiered fountain with multiple shallow levels makes a lovely hummingbird birdbath. Water trickles down from one tier to the next with the bottom basin being only 1-2 inches deep for easy access. The tiered design and running water will attract hummingbirds.
Solar Fountain Bird Bath
Solar-powered fountains are convenient because they circulate water automatically throughout the day. Solar panel tops on shallow basin fountains allow the water to move and bubble without electricity. Position solar fountain birdbaths in full sun for optimal solar exposure.
Plumbers Tube Fountain
For a DIY fountain project, a plumbers tube attached to a hose can make a simple hummingbird fountain bath. Adjust the tube to only have a 1 inch water stream coming out over a tiny shallow basin. The moving stream will catch the attention of hummingbirds while providing fresh clean water.
Mister Style Hummingbird Bird Baths
Mister style bird baths feature a mister sprayer attachment to help keep hummingbirds cool in hot weather. The fine mist also helps attract hummingbirds to come bathe and drink. Some mister bath options include:
Mister Dish Bird Bath
Attach a mister sprayer on a small 1-2 inch depth bird bath to create a dish style mister birdbath for hummingbirds. The mister will spray a light mist across the dish which hummingbirds will playfully fly through and drink water droplets.
Mister Fountain Bird Bath
Adding a mister component to a small fountain birdbath doubles the appeal for hummingbirds. The sound of the fountain plus a light mist spray entices hummingbirds to stop by. Misters attached to fountains provide constant water movement.
Garden Mister
Free standing garden misters can also serve as hummingbird baths when placed near other nectar flowers and feeders. Set the mister to provide a very light spray that will attract hummingbirds on hot days. Ensure the mister is positioned away from bushes and clear for easy access.
Important Accessories For Hummingbird Baths
Certain accessories can help maintain your hummingbird bath and make it even more enticing. Useful add-ons include:
- Dripper or bubbler – Adds movement
- Submersible fountain pump – Creates fountain effect
- Tubing – Connects pumps and misters
- Hanger – Allows bath attachment to railings or trees
- Mister attachment – Provides enticing spray of water
- Heater – Keeps water thawed in winter
- De-icer – Prevents ice buildup
- Cleaner – Removes mineral deposits
Using accessories is an easy way to enhance a basic birdbath and make it irresistible to hummingbirds.
Ideal Placement Of Hummingbird Birdbaths
Proper placement of your hummingbird bath is key to attracting these swift little birds. Follow these tips:
- Choose an open spot away from bushes and clear overhead
- Elevate it above ground for easy access
- Place in full sun to keep water warm
- Keep away from busy areas that may startle birds
- Aim any misters to spray parallel to perching locations
- Ensure good drainage underneath
- Make it visible from favorite feeding areas in the yard
With strategic placement in the garden, your new hummingbird bath will get noticed and used more frequently.
Tips For Safe, Clean Hummingbird Birdbath Water
To keep hummingbirds healthy, follow these essential tips for clean birdbath water:
- Empty and refill with fresh water daily
- Scrub inside weekly with mild soap and water
- Use bottle brushes for small baths
- Avoid bleach – it can harm birds
- Skip chemical additives
- Remove leaf litter and debris
- Replace water immediately if soiled
- Consider filtered water to minimize minerals
- Use birdbath cleaner weekly to remove scale buildup
With routine cleaning and fresh water, your hummingbird bath will stay sanitary and appealing to small birds.
Conclusion
Providing backyard hummingbird baths is an easy way to add beauty and enjoyment to your garden. Look for styles with shallow 1-2 inch depths and moving water such as fountains or misters which attract hummingbirds best. Strategically place your hummingbird birdbath in an open spot away from bushes where it’s easily seen. With routine cleaning and water changing, it will offer a healthy spot for tiny hummingbirds to visit for years to come.
