Friday, November 25, 2011

The Joys Of Getting A Bird Bath

By Shayna Chestnut


I feel affection for these wild birds and I know how important it is to have a water source for their drinking and bathing. Do you feel the same? Birdbaths can certainly catch the attention of wild birds. Actually, it was in 1970 when we started feeding and caring for these birds. Up to now, we still do. It is one of the great joys of living here. They bless us every day with their beauty, songs, and antics. There are times when I sit outside and occasionally a bird will perch on my head or knee. We co-exist with these birds and treat each other us family. Creatures who come here do not worry for their safety. They know that everyone is welcome and is treated as family. Indeed, it works.

Water is a basic essential of all living creatures. Birds need water for drinking but often it is not easy for them to find it. Water keeps the birds clean and fresh all the time. It is mostly needed during the summer and dry season. Birds can't fly properly and protect themselves if their feathers are unclean.

Location is the first factor to consider in placing a birdbath. It must be easily accessible for birds to fly immediately when predators are coming. Birdbaths are not safe for birds if put in or near many bushes. Any beast hiding behind the bushes can easily pounce on them. Placing the garden fountain under a tree will provide shade and a place to perch. Birds will feel safe on a tree branch, drying their feathers. Never place the bird bath under a feeder because the bird's dung can pollute the water. Ensure that the bird's water supply is changed every few days to maintain its cleanliness and freshness. During the summer when it is hot, change the water everyday. Still waters left in the open or under the sun can grow algae. If it is already disgusting to see algae stains in the water, how much more for birds if they were to drink or bathe in it? If it's been that for too long, you'll have a hard time cleaning it. Say it isn't so.

I find it fascinating to gaze upon the birds in the garden fountain. They bathe by dipping their bodies and then splashing some of the water on themselves. After they bathe, I have seen them fly and perch on a branch, especially in the sunlight and preen themselves. I enjoy watching their bathing routine. It appears that the birds are merrily doing it. Birds produce oil at the base of their tail. The oil protects their feathers, keeping it durable and impermeable to water. During this time, dirt and insects are also taken out from the feathers.

Common birdbaths are usually puddles. If you are to choose a birdbath, pick a round-shaped or oval-shaped birdbath. its depth should not exceed three inches and its texture not too smooth to avoid birds from slipping. To avoid birds from sliding, you can also add small pebbles at the bottom of the birdbath.

Different kinds of birdbaths are seen in the market. We find the one powered by solar energy suitable for birds. The sound of the water flowing or dripping seems to attract the birds. Another type of birdbath is the one that thaws frozen water. During winter, birds will have enough water supply.




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