Does Cleaning a Birdbath With Chlorine Hurt the Birds When They Drink the Water?

Keeping a birdbath clean can help attract fowl to your garden.

A clean birdbath can attract more of these animals than a feeder, according to Birdwatching.com. You should be careful when cleaning this piece so as not to harm the creatures after they have discovered it.

Harmful

Bleach and other chemicals can be hazardous to birds when used in a birdbath, according to Wisconsin veterinarians Foster and Smith. They recommend using a scrub brush to remove algae. If necessary, use a mild detergent and rinse the structure thoroughly after doing so. Add clean water after all residue has been removed.

Maintain

To keep algae or mineral deposits from forming in your birdbath, clean it out and add fresh water daily, if possible. You can also add to your unit a product designed to keep this water clear. Make sure it is non-toxic; do not use chemicals designed for pools or hot tubs.

Reasons

Keeping your birdbath clean can prevent the spread of disease. It can also keep it from becoming unsightly should feathers or bird droppings get into the water. You can also prevent harmful insects such as mosquitoes from using this area to breed. Having clean water for birds to bathe in will also attract more of these creatures to your yard.

References

• Drs. Foster Smith: Birdbaths, Cleaning Made Easy
• Birdwatching: Bath Attractions