How to Make a Bird Dust Bath

Dust is used as a cleaning agent for birds and animals whose feathers or fur are protected from water by a thin later of natural oil. Due to its silt-like consistency, dust is an effective cleaner in situations where water is useless. Consistency, however, is the key. If the bath is too heavy the dust won't penetrate properly. If it's too there won't be enough substance to absorb excess oil or to lift away dirt and parasites. Put together a perfectly balanced dust bath to help your bird primp and fluff his feathers.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sand
• Leaf loam or peat moss
• Wood ash, sifted
• Brick or decorative stone --enough to surround a 3-foot square area

1. Select a sunny spot in your garden to create your bird dust bath. Direct sun keeps the contents of the bath dry and flaky. It also helps evaporate excess moisture after a heavy dew or rain. The spot needs to be big enough for you to comfortably dig out an area approximately three feet square.

2. Remove the grass, sod or top soil from a three-foot square area. Dig down about 6 inches as you clear the area.

3. Add equal parts of sand, leaf loam or peat moss and sifted wood ash. Sift the wood ash to rid it of small lumps of leftover charcoal that damage smaller feathers and feather down.

4. Mix equal parts of the three ingredients until they are completely blended.

5. Fill the excavated 3-foot square area with the mixture.

6. Line the outside of the dust bath with brick or decorative stones to keep the mixture from drifting out of the dust bath. This also gives the area a finished look and adds to your overall garden decor.

Tips & Warnings

• Place a water bowl or water-filled bird bath near the dust bath. This gives birds a place to bathe and drink.
• Place the dust bath away from areas frequented by cats. Bathing on the ground makes birds vulnerable to cats. You also want to avoid letting cats use the dust bath as an outdoor litter box.