Most of the birds do not like
full sun, nor full shade. They don't like the bath fully exposed (hawks can
get them) or in brush (cats can get them). If you put the bath under a tree,
the tree can die of over watering. The bird brain is picky! Most birds
prefer a bath that is partially exposed with very low vegetation under it
but a tree or shrub nearby so they can land in the tree and hop or fly a
short distance to the bath or fly from the bath quickly to the tree if
danger approaches. Put the bath near the edge or drip line of a tree or bush
that likes a lot of water
if you put one of the ugly things up, you'll have to hear about it from
EVERYONE.
My favorite is an old hubcap. It's kind of fun just to bug the uptight
neighbors to put these all over the yard and then pull out the six pack, the
old chaise lounge, the newspaper and watch the birds and the neighbors.
The basic bath
structure is a simple post sticking out of the ground about four feet with a
pan full of water on top. Light weight pans should have a rock in them or a
lot of water to counter act the weight of a thirsty, fat bird.
Summer is a wonderful time to
attract new visitors to your bird bath. The next generation is on the scene,
looking for a reliable source of water for bathing and drinking. A regular
rinsing as you fill the bath with water keeps algae from building up in the
bird bath bowl.
As you get to know your
backyard birds, you'll find that some are secretive and prefer more
sheltered areas for a bath while others will come right up to the deck where
you can enjoy all the drama up close.
Birdbaths should have a gradual shallow decline with a rough surface. The
rough surface makes it easier for the bird’s feet to grasp. It should
contain no more than 3 inches of water. The birdbath should be placed in an
open area three feet above ground level to ensure safety from predators.
Change the bath water often to keep it clean from dirt and feathers.
Water attracts more bird
species than any feeder or nest box. Bird baths can become bird problems
when they're too deep (small birds can drown in three inches of water) or
dirty (birds drink, bathe and defecate at a bath).
Hose out the bath daily and wash it with hot, soapy water at least once a
week. Add liquid bleach to the soapy water to help kill algae and bacteria.
Winter is the most important
time to offer water. There's no easy way to keep water from freezing.
Contrary to some reports in the popular media, glycerin and antifreeze will
kill birds.
The only way to keep water from freezing is to add an electric water warmer.
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