Choosing The Right Bird Bath To Attract More Birds

Heated Bird Bath

Whether it's a heated bath, a mister/dripper, or a fountain, providing a source of water for birds to bathe and drink from will greatly increase your bird watching experience.

All the birds that normally visit your bird feeder will come to your bird bath. In addition, you'll attract many birds that don't neccessarly visit feeders.

Some of these include Robins, Thrushes, Vireos, Orioles and warblers.

A reliable source of fresh water is an essential ingredient in any bird watching program.

No matter where in the country you live, water can be a scarce resource during winter and summer droughts.

What To Look For In Bird Baths

If you are considering purchasing a bird bath there are several things to keep in mind: it should have a gradual non slippery slope and it should be no more than 3 inches deep. Water that is too deep will not be used by many of the smaller birds.

The sound of running water attracts many birds. A bucket that has a tiny hole in the bottom, suspended above the birdbath can add the sense of movement that birds seem to love.

A more attractive solution is a mist fountain or drip hose made for birdbaths and water gardens. Hummingbirds love to fly through a spray of water.

Birds need water all year, including winter, which can be a time of drought for them.

By providing heated water in winter, you'll attract more birds than just with feeders.

Bird bath heaters use very little electricity and are harmless to the birds. The purpose of the heater is to keep the water just above freezing and not to actually warm the water.

How you present water is not as important as keeping the water fresh and clear. If using a garden pond, make sure no chemicals from lawn feeding and weeding run off and into your pond.

Never add chemicals to control algae or insects. Always be sure no lead-lined birdbaths or plumbing fixtures are use, as lead can poison birds.

Try to place your water near feeders so the birds can easily find it. Add a perch close by if there is no natural source available.

Place a large stone in the center of the bath to give the birds another point of entry that is more natural.

Safety is a prime consideration in locating the bird bath. A wet bird is slower to flight, and a much easier target for cats.

Locate the bath in the open as much as possible away frome shrubs where cats can hide. A 2 or 3 foot high bath can give added protection and provide the birds a higher comfort level.

Many different types of bird baths and supports are available. Some of the hard to find types such as deck mounted, heated, and ground types can be found online. Why not relax and check a few out right now by visiting this link Birdbaths

Whichever way you decide to add water to your bird watching program, whether in a fountain, pool, or traditional bird bath, you'll find the birds love it, and you'll have more fun watching.

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