SETTING UP YOUR BIRDBATH

Birds seem to prefer baths that are set at ground level, where they typically find water in nature. While birds are bathing they can be vulnerable to predators, especially to cats. If you have a cat, please keep it indoors. If cats are at all likely to be lurking in your neighbourhood, make sure there is a fairly wide open area between your birdbath and the nearest thick shrubbery, so birds have a better chance to detect and get away from a cat in time.

Place your birdbath in the shade if possible, to keep the water cooler and fresher. Having trees nearby will also provide branches on which they can preen.

Arrange stones (or branches) in the water so birds can stand on them to drink without getting wet (this is particularly important during freezing winter weather).

Depth of Birdbath

For bathing the water should be no deeper than 1 to 2 cm at the edges, sloping to a maximum of 6 cm deep in the middle of the bath. Deeper birdbaths can be used for drinking or seeds. Alternatively, you may place a stone or pebbles in the deeper birdbath to create a stepping stone.

One of the best ways to make your birdbath even more attractive is to provide dripping water. Many birds find the sight and sound of moving water irresistible. You can use a commercial dripper or sprayer, or make your own by recycling an old bucket or plastic container. Punch a tiny hole in the bottom, fill it with water, and hang it above the birdbath so the water drips into the bath.

Maintaining Your Birdbath

When the temperature is above freezing, it’s a good idea to keep your birdbath full at all times to attract the widest numbers and variety of birds. But to provide a safe drinking and bathing environment, it’s important to change the water every day or two. 

Bathing birds may leave behind dirty feathers and droppings, making the bath increasingly unsanitary for other birds. Algae grow much more quickly when the water isn’t cleaned frequently. Shallow birdbaths will anyway require daily filling as the sun or winds will evaporate the water.

If needed, just wash your birdbath out with water and a bit of dishwashing liquid.