Birds come in all shapes, sizes, materials and price ranges. Made from completely elaborate concrete “art forms”, to cast iron mesh, to a purely functional plastic base & a bowl Thus buying a birdbath makes a complete sentence …. i.e., from the following:
What do you have to buy for birds?
If it’s just to provide a place for the birds to wash, (with minimal priority for aesthetics or landscaping appeal), BUY PLASTIC! And if you fill the base section with sand or stones, it’s less likely to be spotted by midnight drinkers (deer, raccoons, bears?).
If you want to provide the birds with a place to bathe, PLUS provide an enhancement to the landscaping appeal, consider some of the decking-type metal (and/or plastic) decking. Some of these are quite elaborate and ornate in design, and certainly add appeal to the eyes. But some are difficult to keep straight, especially in rural areas where other wildlife can be found. One trick to avoid tipping is to use “ground staples” (available at most home centers), if the cast part of the base has places where they can be used (i.e., many bases are filigree, allowing the staples to hang on some machines, thus anchoring the base section of the ground).
If it’s mostly just to give enhancements to the landscaping appeal, but you still want to provide a place to wash the birds, consider a bird/fountain unit. There are many types to choose from (faux-rock, concrete, cast iron, plastic), and they always add rugged beauty to any yard. Remember that the placement is critical, as the fountains require electrical power to operate (unless powered by solar energy).
A BIG NOTE BEFORE:
To prevent stagnant water, the bird baths should be cleaned, and the water should be replaced frequently, even daily if possible.
Water can be stored in larger sources if it is stored in a non-renewable way. Look for treatment products that are certified to be safe for animals.
Whatever kind of food you choose, please remember that the water will be consumed by harmless birds and other animals.
Birds may drown in aviaries if the water is too deep or there are no shallow areas.
Your birds to your birds attracting even larger birds of prey or other animals that feed on birds.
Poorly maintained birds can become a mosquito to fish and birds or other animals, and even to humans. If you’re not going to save it, please don’t!
Place your birdhouses near bushes or trees so that the birds have a safe place to escape if necessary. Remember that when their feathers are wet, birds do not fly, but when they are dry, if necessary, they rush to the protection of bushes or trees, the better!
Direct the sun on your bird, it will hasten evaporation and torpor; If possible, keep the birds in a shady spot.
Goodbye and have fun!
