How to Make a Simple, Inexpensive Bird Bath

A bird bath is a beautiful way to bring nature into your yard. There are many ways to construct one by assembling a few simple items. I will show you how to complete five different varieties.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Flower Pot(s) and Saucer(s)
• Garbage Can Lid
• Rocks
• Piece of Wood
• Chisel
• Sand Paper
• Heavy Pie Plate
• Hanging Flower Basket
• Water
• Bamboo Steamer
• Garbage Bag
• Scissors

1. The first variety is my personal favorite. It is constructed out of one or more flower pots. Place the pot upside down on a level surface. Place a large saucer right on top of the pot. For additional height stack several pots together instead of only one. Simple and fitting for any garden or other natural setting. These pots do come in a variety of colors and shapes so you can adapt your bird bath to your individual preferences. Any of these will look great amongst the vegetation. You can also add a trickling "waterfall" by hanging a water bottle or aluminum can with 2-4 small nail holes punched into the bottom or sides slightly above the bottom. This "waterfall" can be added to any bird bath by hanging it from a nearby tree. Make sure you allow the water to be able to fall several feet before hitting the bird bath. Don't worry, you won't have to fill this indefinitely. Once you attract the birds they will continue to use the bath in the future even if the water isn't running. You can even use a fine spraying sprinkler on low.
2. This is another variety using a flower pot. Cut the center out of the top two levels of the bamboo steamer and place the pot upside down on the ground. Place the bottom level of the steamer on top of the inverted pot. Place a garbage bag open inside the steamer and fill with rocks. Trim any excess bag hanging over the edge. Place one of the cut out rings on top so you can't see the bag. Take the other cutout ring and cut it so that it is one long piece instead of a circle. Stretch the piece around the base of the flower pot. Fill with water and wah-la! You have a bird bath.
3. Another type is super simple to make, well actually, you don't even have to make it. A garbage can lid is a perfect little bird bath. Place the lid in a depression in the ground to prevent it from rocking on the handle. Add enough gravel or small ornamental rocks to partially cover the bottom and then add water. This option is best for yards that have little to no cat activity. This option also attracts other small animals like squirrels.
4. The third option is made from a pie plate and hanging basket. Find a nice location in your yard where you can hang a hanging basket and hang it. Place a heavy pie plate on top of the basket and fill with water. You will want to get a hanging basket that is large enough hold the plate but small enough so that the plate will not fall into it. This option is great for any situation.
5. The last type most resembles something that Mother Nature would create herself. It is the least expensive option if you have some leftover firewood or a nice tree that needs some trimming. Take a piece of wood, preferably a log, and chisel out a shallow area. Make sure to carefully sand the area smooth, place in garden, and then fill it with water.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the water clean. Change the water every few days to keep the birds happy and healthy.
• Use a stiff bristled brush to remove any algae if it forms. Do NOT use any type of algae killer because it may kill the birds too.
• Create some type of "waterfall" to attract birds to its location.
• Keep the water no more than 1-2 inches deep. Birds prefer shallow water. Any deeper and they may stay away for fear of drowning.
• Place your bird bath in a clear location on the lawn if possible. Birds prefer to have clear visibility while bathing to watch for predators.
• Keep a good supply of food nearby. Please see my other articles for an easy, no cost solution.
• If you live in a cold environment be sure to remove any ice that may form. Birds won't bath in ice.
• Do not use chemicals to remove algae if present.
• Try to keep your bird bath away from areas where a predator can hide waiting for their dinner.