Tag Archive: water wiggler

Attract More Backyard Birds with a Bird Bath or Fountain

January 4, 2010

There is no better way to get birds flocking to your yard than a good source of fresh water. A bird’s need for water through every season of the year is so strong that even species you never expected will be attracted to a strategically placed water source.

Having a birdbath or fountain is an advantage to anyone who enjoys observing nature in general and bird behavior in particular.

The most natural spot for a bath is close to the ground, but water at higher levels not only appeals to some species, it reduces the bird’s exposure to cat attacks. Soaking-wet birds are no match for feline agility. Putting a birdbath near trees improves security against raptors. Plus, branches are an easily reached perch from which to preen in safety.

Solar Bird Baths are Practical and Decorative
Solar Bird Baths

Locate your bath in a shady part of your yard. This will keep the water at a cooler, more refreshing temperature in hot weather.

To get birds accustomed to the bath, try placing a feeder within five feet of the bath. Birds will notice the water as they go to the feeder.

1 comment

Permanent link to this article: http://blog.newenglandbirdhouse.com/backyard-birding/baths-fountains-attract-more-birds/

Providing Water for Birds in the Winter

December 25, 2009

by Bill Askenburg

December 25, 2009

Water is a vital resource in the day to day life of birds, and during the winter unfrozen water can be scarce. Birdbath heaters allow you to offer unfrozen water during the cold winter months. When all of the water in and around your yard is frozen, your heated bath will attract birds like a magnet.

During winter birds need water not only for drinking but for bathing as well. Why would a bird want to get wet in freezing temperatures? Because when their feathers get dirty and they don’t insulate as well. A dip and splash in the bath will get their feathers back to optimum performance.

Deck Mounted Heated Bird Bath
Deck Mounted Heated Bird Bath

There are two approaches to heated setups, a dish with the heater built in or adding a heater to an existing birdbath. Most of these have built in thermostats that conserve energy by only turning on when needed to keep the water ice free. Use a heavy duty outdoor extension cord to plug them in.

Leave comment

Permanent link to this article: http://blog.newenglandbirdhouse.com/backyard-birding/water-for-winter-birds/

Video

Bird Watcher’s Digest Backyard Birding Basics Video

Andy Thompson of “Bird Watcher’s Digest” shows Harry Smith of the CBS Morning News, some of the great new products available for backyard birders including the water wiggler, audubon nesting boxes, and the Identiflyer. Great video for backyard birding basics, including a segment on field guides, bird feeders and squirrel proofing.