Many small bodies of water dry out in summer and their water freezes over in winter. However, drinking and bathing opportunities are important for the well-being of wild birds. But they simply don't want to fly to some beautifully designed birdbaths. Why is this and how can it be changed?
Why isn't my birdbath accepted?
If a bird bath is not accepted, it is often due to location, safety and hygiene. Ensure elevated position, visibility, adequate clearance from bushes, rough edge, shallow water depth and regular cleaning to increase attractiveness to wild birds.
Beauty doesn't count
Bird baths are available to buy ready-made. From the simple model, which simply resembles a bowl, to the luxury version made of natural stone, everything is represented. Not to forget the numerous self-created and self-realized examples. One prettier than the other. But this beauty only pleases our eyes. The birds pay more attention to safety.
Recognize potential danger
So if a bird bath is not accepted, it could also be because wild birds cannot safely fill it. Cats that sneak up on you and are only recognized too late pose a great danger. Therefore, check whether there is a wide view from the bird bath. It should also be possible to fly away quickly at any time. Nearby bushes are a great hiding place for cats. A watering trough in the middle of tall grass is also not particularly attractive.
Set up the bird bath correctly
If you realized from the previous description that the bird bath you didn't accept was in an unsuitable place, you should change that. The following recommendations apply to setting up bird baths:
- Place potions elevated
- on a sturdy stand or similar
- about 3 m away from bushes
- However, bushes further away are welcome
- Wild birds can seek protection there if necessary
- Bird baths can also be placed on lawns
- but then in the middle of it
- the grass must also be mown short
Tip
The quality of the drinker should also be such that birds can find a good grip on it. For example, a wide edge and rough surface are important. The trough shouldn't be too deep either. A few cm is enough at the edge, and a maximum of 10 cm towards the middle.
Cleanliness and freshness
In a pinch, when nothing else is available nearby, a wild bird will linger in a contaminated watering hole. This doesn't necessarily have to be due to negligence on the part of the owners. The birds bathe in the water and bring dirt into it. In addition, the water heats up quickly in summer, which further increases the germ load. Therefore, clean the drinker regularly and replace old water with fresh.
