If you want to attract more birds to your yard, think beyond feeders. Because all birds need water, bird baths will attract a wider variety of birds than seed feeders, says Becca Rodomsky-Bish, project leader at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.
Access to water is important for birds in winter, especially in northern climates where non-frozen sources are often in short supply. “It can be challenging for birds to maintain their hydration levels in the winter,” says David Mizejewski, wildlife expert and media personality for the National Wildlife Federation.
The difficulty with birdbaths in winter is that it can be difficult to keep the water from freezing. Our experts share tips for choosing a birdbath and caring for it throughout the winter.
1. Replace the water every day
An easy way to provide birds with water in the winter is to provide fresh water daily. Unless it is extremely cold, the water should remain thawed throughout the day. “Make it your morning routine to simply go outside, take out the ice, and fill it with cold water,” advises Mizejewski.
2. Install a drip system
Hang a gallon jug filled with water over a shallow bowl and poke a small drip hole in the bottom of the jug. The movement of the dripping water keeps the water thawed longer. “This is a DIY device that's really inexpensive and a lot of people say they've had great success with it,” Rodomsky-Bish says.
3. Purchase a heated birdbath
Heated bird baths, available online or at your local bird supply store, keep the water just above freezing and require less effort, says Mizejewski. Although they tend to be more expensive and require electricity, they can be a great strategy, adds Rodomsky-Bish.
When purchasing a heated birdbath, always read the manufacturer's instructions to ensure it is suitable for local temperatures. “Read the fine print and make sure it’s safe for your line,” advises Rodomsky-Bish.
4. Install a small pond with fountains
If you have enough space, consider creating a small pond with fountains. Running water stays thawed longer in winter. Many bird lovers have small ponds with fountains, says Rodomsky-Bish, who notes that they stay thawed even on very cold days.
5. Choose the right birdbath
When choosing a birdbath, use only a shallow bowl no deeper than 3 inches, advises Mizejewski. Birds can trip and drown, so it should stay nice and flat, Rodomsky-Bish adds. She also suggests creating an escape route, which can be accomplished by attaching sticks or rocks to the birdbath.
If you set up a water bowl for birds in winter, also make sure that it can withstand cold temperatures. Glass and terracotta are probably not a good idea because they can break easily in subzero temperatures, says Rodomsky-Bish.
Remember that bird baths also come in many different designs. Classic pedestal designs are popular, but there are also hanging options, walk-in tubs and those that mount on the deck railing, Mizejewski says. So choose the style that suits you best.
6. Maintain the birdbath in winter
Cleaning your birdbaths regularly is important to prevent the spread of disease, even in the winter, says Rodomsky-Bish. She recommends washing birdbaths once a week with a mild detergent, while Mizejewski recommends cleaning daily with an alcohol-based disinfectant and letting it sit for 20 seconds to disinfect the bath. “You don’t want to put up birdbaths for the birds to see and enjoy and then put them at greater risk,” he notes.
7. Create a habitat for birds in your garden
While bird feeders and waterers are great ways to help the birds in your area, protecting and creating natural habitats is even more important. “Water is a great resource, feeders can be a great resource, but birds actually need habitat,” Rodomsky-Bish says. That means reducing lawns, planting native plants, avoiding pesticides and protecting natural water sources, Mizejewski notes.
Planting native plants is particularly important because they provide birds with food, shelter and the insects they need to feed their young, our experts say. Luckily, there are a variety of bird-friendly native trees, shrubs, vines, and wildflowers that can transform your yard into a thriving bird paradise.