Birdbaths Give You Birds All Year Long

Birdbaths Give You Birds All Year Long

Water is the key element to attracting birds into your landscape. Water will draw birds into your yard for bathing and drinking. Birds rely on a dependable water source to survive. A birdbath is a decorative way to draw in wild birds, creating an ornamental feature for your setting at the same time. A birdbath, in conjunction with bird feeder and homes, is the perfect way to attract birds!

The best birdbaths to choose are small and shallow baths that actually mimic naturally forming “bird baths”, like puddles. These are the best type because they are not too deep, as some cast stone birdbaths can be, or too slippery as glazed baths often are. Look for a bath that is easy to clean and will not break easily. Make sure it has a gentle slope and is relatively shallow so birds can wade into the water and bath without being in danger.

Birds prefer baths that are at ground level. If a birds feathers get too wet they cannot fly off if danger approaches. The biggest risk to ground level bird baths is cats. If there are cats that ravel around in your neighborhood, you may want to consider placing the bath in place near bushes or trees so the birds can easily escape to safety. They should also be placed in the shade, as direct sunlight can cause the water to warm and grow stale. It may even be a good idea to set some small stones or gravel in the bath to provide for more secure footing and a place to stand that is not directly in the water.

Birdbaths do not need to be put away in the winter. In fact, birds need the reliable water source all year long! You can consider including a heating element to your fountain, but ice will not deter the birds from drinking, as they are able to garner water from ice, icicles, and even snow. In fact, sometimes if there is a heated element to the fountain and can pose a bigger threat to the wildlife. In the winter, consider placing large rocks in the basin, or long sticks over the bath to prevent the birds from bathing in freezing temperatures, allowing them to only drink.

There are many birdbaths that are offered with temperature controlled settings, or you can consider and immersion heater for your existing birdbath. Just be sure to never add antifreeze to your birdbath, this is poisonous, and can kill the birds. If they bath in this substance it can cause matting of there wings, not allowing them to fly, causing hypothermia and death as well.

For the winter months, do not keep the bath totally full. However, in the summer make sure the bath is filled often, as the heat can cause evaporation. It is also a good idea to change the water frequently; this keeps it fresh and clean, and curbs the growth of algae in the bath. It will also keep mosquitoes from laying their larvae in the baths. If any of these substances do begin to grow, the bath will need emptied and thoroughly cleaned with running water and a stiff brush. Changing the water daily will also keep the bath free of bird dropping or dirty feathers that result from the birds.

Birdbaths are a great way to draw in the local wildlife and with a little extra care and maintenance can be used all year long. This will keep the birds in your setting, because they have a constant supply of water! Posted by Jean Widner.

Bird Baths:
A Birdbath has a useful purpose in your outdoor setting. Birds that are natural to your area will find the birdbath a welcoming respite. They are sure to put on a fun and playful show for you and your garden guests with their fluttering and singing. Birdbaths also offer a charming touch to your décor. You can choose a short birdbath that sits on a patio or in a flower bed to provide a unique look. If you have an open garden setting, a tall and stately birdbath could create the perfect focal point! The material you choose for a birdbath totally depends on your own style and your conditions. If you are in a very windy place with harsh weather conditions, you may opt for a birdbath that is strong and hardy like cast stone. However, if you enjoy rearranging your settings frequently, a lighter weight material, like fiberglass, may be the best option for you.

Bird Feeders:
A birdfeeder is basically anything that is used to feed birds. This can be a hanging feeder, a feeder that sits on a pole or one that sits on the floor. These are great feature to not only care for your favorite feathered friends, but they will provide you with fun hours of entertainment as well. Birdfeeders can be made of wood, recycled plastic, metal, or cast stone.

Bird Houses:
Bird houses provide a safe place for birds to nest. There are many types of predators that hunt and pray on birds. Adding a birdhouse to your outdoor setting will give these creatures a place to raise their babies without the fear of being attacked. You will find that you will be rewarded with the fluttering and singing, and the joys of baby birds learning to fly! Bird house are made from wood, metal, and even recycled materials!