As a bird lover, there’s nothing more delightful than watching your feathered friends splash around in a bird bath. In fact, over 40% of Americans have backyard bird baths or feeders1.
But let’s face it – keeping that water feature clean can be a real challenge. Thankfully, there are some easy genius tricks to help you maintain a sparkling clean and safe haven for your backyard birds.
1. The Penny Trick: Copper’s Secret Power
Believe it or not, tossing a handful of copper pennies into your bird bath can work wonders. Why? Copper has natural algaecide properties that slow down algae growth. A study found that copper ions released by the pennies can reduce algae by up to 50%. (ref) Plus, the shiny coins may even attract curious birds like crows and jays.
So, gather up those old pennies and let them work their magic. Just remember to replace them every few months for optimal results. Your birds will thank you for their pristine swimming spot!
2. Vinegar: An All-Natural Cleaner
When it comes to cleaning your bird bath, skip the harsh chemicals and opt for a natural solution: vinegar. This household staple is a powerhouse for removing debris and disinfecting surfaces.
Simply mix one part distilled white vinegar with nine parts water, and give your bird bath a good scrub. Rinse thoroughly and let it dry before refilling with fresh water. Your birds will appreciate the chemical-free environment!
3. Location Matters: The Shady Spot
Did you know that placing your bird bath in the right location can make a big difference in keeping it clean? Opt for a shady spot to slow down evaporation and algae growth. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology actually recommends placing your bird bath in the shade if possible, to keep the water cooler and fresher.
Choose a location near shrubs or trees to provide birds with a quick escape route, but avoid placing it directly under branches where debris can accumulate.
4. Keep It Moving: Power of Flowing Water
Still water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes and bacteria, but a simple solution is to keep the water moving. Birds are naturally attracted to the sight and sound of flowing water.
Consider adding a small solar fountain or dripper to your bird bath. Not only will it entice more feathered visitors, but the constant movement will also prevent mosquito larvae from settling in.
5. Shallow & Sloped: The Perfect Basin
When selecting a bird bath, opt for a shallow basin with a gentle slope. Birds prefer a maximum water depth of 2 inches, as it allows them to easily wade in and out. If your basin is deeper, place a large rock in the center to provide a perching spot.
A sloped basin also makes it easier for birds to enter and exit the water safely. Plus, it provides a variety of depths to accommodate different species. Your birds will appreciate the thoughtful design!
6. Scrub-a-Dub-Dub: The Weekly Clean
To keep your bird bath in tip-top shape, make it a habit to give it a thorough cleaning every week. Dump out the old water, give the basin a good scrub with a brush, and rinse it well before refilling. This simple routine will prevent the buildup of debris and keep the water fresh for your feathered friends.
For an extra level of cleanliness, consider sterilizing your bird bath twice a year with a diluted bleach solution. Just be sure to rinse it thoroughly and let it dry completely before refilling with water.
7. Nature’s Helpers: Barley Straw & Enzymes
Looking for an eco-friendly way to control algae growth? Try adding a handful of barley straw or a bio-friendly enzyme to your bird bath water. Barley straw releases compounds that naturally inhibit algae growth, while enzymes break down organic matter. (ref)
These natural solutions are safe for birds and can significantly reduce the need for frequent cleaning. Plus, they’re a great alternative to harsh chemicals that can harm wildlife. Your birds will love splashing around in the crystal-clear water!
Source:
1. https://www.paws.org/resources/providing-safe-food-and-water-for-birds/
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Nancy has been a plant person from an early age. That interest blossomed into a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Nancy worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.