The Ideal Bath

Birds don’t always have humans around to build bird baths, so what do they use in the wild? If you thought of a shallow creek or a puddle, that’s correct! These tiny bodies of water give easy access for drinking and bathing. So, to create the ideal bath, a bird bath should mimic certain characteristics of a puddle.

The perfect bird bath needs to be shallow with a sloping descent to the deepest part. At the edges, the water should be 0.5-1 inches deep and no more than 2 inches deep in the center. The bottom of the bath should be shaped like a wide, shallow bowl.

A bird bath should be placed on the ground or close to the ground. A few sticks or stones should be arranged so a bird can drink without getting wet. During freezing weather especially, the bird shouldn’t have to take a dip to take a sip.

Shelter, such as a bush, should be provided nearby for predator protection. However, shelter should not be located right next to the bird bath—birds should be able to see predators coming.

There should be open space between the bird bath and closest shelter, but also not too far away. In addition, the water will be kept cooler if the bath is placed in a shady spot.

Birds are partial to dripping water—it attracts them. This can done yourself by hanging a container, with a small hole, above the birdbath. Fountains can also be enjoyable for birds. However, concerning fountains, there should still be wading space and “dry” areas where a bird won’t get splashed.

Keeping Clean

Bird bath water should be changed every 1-2 days. Not only will bird droppings and feathers make the water gross, but algae and mosquito eggs can add to the mess.

Interestingly enough, West Nile Virus from mosquitoes is dangerous for both humans and birds, so it’s important that your birdbath isn’t a breeding ground for them! Mosquitos love breeding in stagnant pools; a partial-fountain, dripping-water setup, or water mister could also help discourage mosquitos, in addition to your 1-2 day cleanings.

A Note on Algae

Algae will appear as a greenish, brownish, or blackish substance floating on top of the water or on the bottom of the bath. Any bath that carries algae should be cleaned immediately with hot water and a stiff brush. The best way to avoid algae is to change bird bath water often.

Birdbaths in Winter?

Yes, birdbaths benefit birds with drinking and bathing water even in the winter. There are two ways to provide birds with non-frozen water:

  1. Set out a fresh bowl of water everyday. Once it ices over, bring it inside. While it doesn’t provide constant fresh water to birds, it does give them some access.

2. Purchase a bird bath with a built-in heater or connect the bath to an immersion heater. Keep in

mind that this second option only works in sub-freezing temperatures—sometimes, having a bird

bath is not possible.

If keeping your bird bath ice-free is a challenge, don’t worry; birds can get water from dripping icicles, and their bodies naturally conserve water during winter. Winter bird baths can help, but aren't crucial.

*Note: never add anything to the water in your birdbath to make it less susceptible to freezing.

Why Do Birds Bathe?

Interestingly enough....we don't know.

However, researchers hypothesize it's for maintaining their feathers and keeping them in good condition.

One study tested the flight of bathing and non-bathing birds; those who bathed flew better through an obstacle course.

Even pet birds bathe! So, regardless of the exact reason, it's important.

Even raptors like taking baths!

Hans Splinter, used through CC BY-ND 2.0.

Birdbath Myths

Homemade Birdbaths

Since bird baths need to be shallow, there are many items that can easily be transformed into one. Remember, the bird bath should be no deeper than 2 inches while 0.5-1 inches deep near the side. Some examples include pans, a trash can lid, pot placeholders, bowls, or even a circular sled!

Note: this bird bath should be placed in the shade so the metal doesn't become hot. Photo courtesy of Barb Rosen of Our Fairfield Home and Garden.

Photo courtesy of John D. McCann. See how to make this birdbath by clicking here!