Bird bath range for garden birds

Bird baths should be placed out of direct sunlight, as this prevents the water from becoming excessively hot and uncomfortable. Placing a bird bath in a shaded, sheltered area can considerably reduce evaporation, allowing the water to last longer. Algae will not grow as quickly in cooler water, and insects will be less likely to lay eggs. If full shade is not possible, situate the bath so that it is shaded from mid-to-late afternoon through the hottest portion of the summer day.

Deep water is unappealing to most birds. A bird bath should be no more than 2 inches deep. Smaller birds can easily go in and splash around at this depth. You could always add a few large stones or pebbles in the water if your bird bath is deeper than a couple of inches and you don't want to replace it. These will provide a safe space for the birds to stand on and around the bath without making it too deep.

Clean your bird baths at least once a week to prevent the spread of disease. The water in bird baths should be changed daily, with tap water.

A garden bird bath is one of the most effective ways to attract more birds. Birds love cover because it provides them with a sense of security. As a result, placing the bath near plants improves the chance of them using it. Ensure that the birds have clear visibility while bathing, and that there are shrubs or trees nearby to give cover, as well as perches for preening.

Due to the rise in infectious disease in birds, we are not recommending the use of stone bird baths. This is because they can be harder to keep clean enough to be safe for birds to use. Our newest guidelines recommend cleaning bird baths weekly, and replacing water daily, but stone bird baths will require daily cleaning to ensure they are safe for our feathered friends. If you already have a stone bird bath, we recommend cleaning it daily with a sponge, soapy water, and a non-toxic disinfectant, allowing it to dry completely before refilling with fresh tap water.