About Birdbaths
Enhancing the visual beauty of your garden can be accomplished by the addition of a birdbath that is sure to attract a variety of colorful birds. Whether they are stopping by for a refreshing sip of water, cooling off in the heat of the day or taking a dip in preparation of cleaning their feathers, a birdbath provides the perfect one-stop oasis for all of their needs.
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Types
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The birdbath comes in a variety of styles that include pedestal bases in short, medium and long lengths, bowl bases only or with a stand, solar powered or heated birdbaths, hanging baths and cascading fountains. A birdbath pedestal can range in height from 8 inches to 40 inches and bowls can range between 9 inches to 21 inches in diameter making them easily adaptable to any size garden, yard, deck or patio area.
Identification
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A variety of materials are used to make a birdbath including those made from ceramic and cast stone and lighter weight baths made from weather-resilient resins and brushed copper. You can find an assortment of colors or natural earth tones and may have a glazed or textured finish, carved or scrolling detail, sculptures, lights, multiple tiers and hand-painted designs on the column base of a birdbath.
Considerations
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Providing fresh water throughout the hot summer season is essential to wildlife and with a heated birdbath, birds will benefit by having fresh water available at the proper temperature during even the coldest months of the year. The heated birdbath is available in the pedestal style or bowl only style and comes with detachable cords. A solar powered birdbath retains heat preventing the water from freezing and does not require electricity, cords or batteries. For decks, an attachable tilting bowl birdbath can be secured to the decks railing. The tilting mechanism allows for easy cleaning.
Benefits
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A birdbath made from ceramic or cast stone is sturdy and durable. One made from resins is equally as tough and is also resistant to color fading and rust. The cascading water birdbath usually comes equipped with pumps that circulate the water creating a relaxing sound while keeping the water from becoming stagnant and attracting mosquitoes. Depending on the type of birdbath chosen, it may come in two-parts that consist of the pedestal and the bowl that are easily assembled, a bowl only or the birdbath may be molded into one piece. Those with self-contained water pumps are ready to be plugged in with no additional assembly required. Separate heaters are available for a birdbath not equipped with a heating unit.
Prevention/Solution
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Keeping the birdbath clean is necessary to prevent green algae build-up, bacteria and mineral deposits. Periodic scrubbing with a soft bristled brush along with the use of available natural non-toxic cleansers that are safe for birds, butterflies, wildlife and outdoor pets that may drink from the bowl will help keep the birdbath in a healthy condition. Birdbath covers are also available that fit securely over the bowl. Follow the maintenance and care instructions provided with the birdbath especially for those using solar panels, pumps and heating units.
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