Attract warblers, sparrows, robins, and other feathered friends to your yard with fresh water. Creating a DIY birdbath using upcycled household items is simple, inexpensive, and rewarding. You’ll be treated to a delightful show as birds splash and play in the water.
Birdbaths can be standalone features or paired with bird feeders and native plants to enhance wildlife appeal. According to ornithologist Robert Mulvihill, a birdbath is an easy and affordable way to enjoy birdwatching.
Watching birds perch, sip, and splash in your birdbath can be entertaining. Adding rocks for perching surfaces and providing a safe, visible location are important considerations. Place your birdbath near windows or on a patio for optimal viewing while ensuring it’s not too close to windows to prevent bird collisions.
DIY Birdbaths: What You Need
Use shallow dishes like flower pot trays and avoid slippery surfaces for the birdbath. Adding rocks for perching and gradual entry ramps enhances bird safety and comfort. Explore various DIY birdbath ideas online for inspiration.
Placement Is Important
Choose a visible yet safe location for your birdbath, considering bird access to nearby trees and shrubs. Enhance the attraction with moving water features like birdbath drippers or agitators.
Extra Enhancements
Consider adding birdbath enhancers like drippers or agitators to attract birds and prevent mosquito breeding. Regularly clean and refill your birdbath to maintain bird health and enjoyment.
Tips & Resources
Follow Audubon’s cleaning recommendations and enjoy the lively bird activity around your DIY birdbath. Keep the water fresh and clean to continue attracting a variety of birds to your yard.
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published on April 26, 2019 and updated in July 2024. Feature image by Geraldine Rose from Pixabay.
