When Texas temperatures soar and rain becomes scarce, backyard bird baths become more than decorative garden features. They provide essential drinking and bathing water when natural sources may be drying up.
“Bird baths can be even more important than feeders during extreme heat,” says Christina Darlington, owner of Wild Birds Unlimited in Georgetown. Birds often have abundant natural food during late summer and early fall, when plants go to seed, but clean water can be much harder to find.
Birds also use water to maintain healthy, flight-worthy feathers. Bathing helps them preen, a process in which they clean their feathers and distribute protective oils. Christina’s bluebirds are especially enthusiastic visitors.
“They take a bath every day when it gets really hot,” she says. “Sometimes I’ll have 10 bluebirds in there having a pool party.”
To keep that party safe, refill the bird bath at least once a day during extreme heat, when water disappears quickly through evaporation. Replace dirty water promptly, and thoroughly clean the basin approximately every five days—or as soon as algae appears.
Routine Cleaning
- Empty the bath and scrub it with a brush or scouring pad reserved for that purpose.
- Stubborn algae or mold may require a small amount of diluted bleach.
- Hard-water deposits can be treated separately with vinegar.
- Never combine bleach and vinegar, and always rinse the bath extremely well before refilling it.
- Place the bath in shade when possible to keep the water cooler and slow algae growth.
Christina discourages metal baths in sunny areas because they can become very hot. Stone and granite also retain heat, while lightweight plastic basins are generally easier to move and clean.
Moving water offers additional benefits. A bubbler, dripper, or mister can help birds notice the water and discourage mosquitoes, which prefer still water for laying eggs. Hummingbirds rarely use conventional bird baths, but they may fly through a mister or splash in gently bubbling or dripping water.
If standing water is unavoidable, refresh it frequently and watch for mosquito larvae. Use only mosquito-control products specifically labeled as safe for bird baths and follow the directions carefully.
Finally, consider predators when choosing a location. An elevated bath can help protect birds from roaming cats, while nearby shrubs or trees offer a quick escape route.
Also, she advises, keep the bath where you can see it. You’ll be more likely to notice when it needs attention and you won’t miss the pool party.
Wild Birds Unlimited
Expert advice, quality seed, and feeders. Let us provide joy to you and your backyard birds. We bring people and nature together and do it with excellence. • GeorgetownTX.wbu.com • (512) 763-1081