Hummingbirds are some of the most beloved backyard birds. Their tiny size, jewel-like plumage, and amazing flying abilities make them a delight to watch. Providing food and habitat for hummingbirds is something many home gardeners strive to do. One common question is whether hummingbirds need or use bird baths. Quick answer – yes, hummingbirds do use and benefit from bird baths, but their small size and different hydration needs mean traditional baths may not be ideal. Read on to learn more about hummingbird bathing habits and how to offer them appropriate water sources.
Do hummingbirds use bird baths?
Hummingbirds do use bird baths as a source of drinking and bathing water. Their high metabolism means they need to consume a lot of calories. This results in the need to drink frequently throughout the day to avoid dehydration. Hummingbirds will utilize any clean, shallow water sources in their environment, including bird baths, for obtaining the water they require. However, traditional deep or steep-sided baths designed for larger birds may not suit a tiny hummingbird’s needs or abilities. Providing a very shallow water area with some perches or rocks for them to stand on while drinking or splashing is ideal.
Hummingbird bathing habits
Hummingbirds have some interesting bathing habits and preferences:
Frequent drinking
Hummingbirds drink often throughout the day by lapping or touching their bill to water. They consume approximately twice their body weight in nectar each day. Frequent drinking helps them avoid dehydration from their sugar-rich diet and high metabolism. Having multiple fresh water sources available is important.
Short bathing sessions
Hummingbirds take very quick baths, splashing in the water for just a few seconds. This rapid bathing gets water droplets on their feathers to aid in thermoregulation. The short duration means they do not require a deep pool of water.
Insect bathing
One reason hummingbirds bathe is to loosen and clean off insect pests like mites or lice that can collect on their feathers. Access to clean water helps them control external parasites.
Not all hummingbirds bathe
While many hummingbirds enjoy bathing, not all individuals regularly bathe. Some may obtain sufficient moisture from rain, mist, and dew to meet their preening needs. Having a clean water source available is still a good idea for drinking.
Morning is prime time
Hummingbirds are most likely to be observed using bird baths early in the day shortly after sunrise. However, they will drink and bathe throughout the day as needed. Having fresh water always available is best.
Choosing a hummingbird bath
When selecting a birdbath for hummingbirds, consider the following factors:
Shallow water
The bath or basin should contain only 1-2 inches of water. This allows the tiny birds to stand in the water while drinking or bathing. Add a few small rocks or marbles to provide secure perches.
Wide stable rim
The edge of the bath should be wide enough for hummingbirds to comfortably perch as they drink and splash. Avoid narrow edges they could slip off. Flat stable rocks or ledges 2-3 inches wide work well.
Small size
Opt for a relatively small overall size and footprint. Larger baths designed for bigger birds will be difficult for the hummingbirds to use. A 10-12 inch diameter basin is sufficient.
Raised position
Mount or position the bath at least 1-2 feet off the ground. Elevation provides protection from predators and keeps it conveniently in the hummingbirds’ flight path as they move around.
Water mover
Including a water dripper, mister, or fountain will help attract hummingbirds. The sight and sound of moving water triggers their interest. Just avoid fast drips or strong spray.
Easy to clean
Select durable and non-porous materials like plastic, ceramic, or metal so the bath can be cleaned frequently to prevent mold, bacteria, and mosquitoes.
Example hummingbird baths
There are many pre-made hummingbird baths and DIY options that meet the ideal specifications. Here are a few examples:
| Product | Description |
|---|---|
| Aspects Upside Down Hummingbird Birdbath | Inverted glass jar design with shallow basin, flat rim, and water dripper. |
| Chenli Hummingbird Bath | Small plastic saucer-style bath with gentle misting fountain. |
| Pennington Cedar Hummingbird Bath | Stained cedar bath with shallow textured basin for perching. |
| DIY bottle or jar lid bath | Inverted lid from a bottle or jar can serve as a tiny ready-made bath. |
Where to place a hummingbird bath
Hummingbird baths should be placed in convenient locations where hummingbirds already tend to feed or fly. Try positioning one:
Near nectar feeders
Locate a birdbath within 4-10 feet of hummingbird feeders. They are likely to notice and use a bath near their regular food source.
Near flowers or plants
Baths near bright tubular flowers or nectar plants around the yard will be easily discovered and used.
In mid-air
Suspend the bath using wire, chain, or rope so it hangs at mid-level in open space of the yard. Hummingbirds like to fly up and perch on the bottom.
Near perches
Having small branches, poles, or shepherd hooks near the bath provides perches for hummingbirds to rest and preen after bathing.
Caring for a hummingbird bath
To keep a hummingbird bath safe and appealing, follow these care tips:
Change water daily
Empty and refill the water every day or more often in hot weather to prevent bacterial or algae growth.
Clean weekly
Use a bottle brush, soap, and water to scrub the bath weekly to remove any sediment, deposits, or biofilms.
No additives
Don’t add sugar, honey, or other supplements to the water which can promote dangerous bacterial growth.
Safe positioning
Place the bath away from bushes, trees, and feeders where cats could hide and ambush visiting hummingbirds.
Year-round availability
In warmer climates, provide clean fresh water in the bath all year for non-migrating hummingbirds.
Conclusion
Hummingbirds do use and benefit from birdbaths as a source of drinking and bathing water. Their small size means traditional deep bird baths may not suit them. Choosing or making a very shallow, stable bath and properly caring for it by changing the water daily and cleaning weekly can provide essential hydration. Locate hummingbird baths in convenient feeding areas of your yard to establish them as a water source. With a well-maintained small bath, you can supply hummingbirds with the water they need for good health and clean feathers.
Related Questions
What is the best water for a hummingbird bath?
The best water for a hummingbird bath is plain fresh tap water or bottled spring water. Avoid treated, softened, or chlorinated water which may contain chemicals. Do not add supplements like sugar, honey, or salt which can encourage dangerous microbial growth.
Should hummingbird baths have a dripper or misters?
The movement and sound of drippers and misters can help attract hummingbirds to baths. However, the water flow should be very gentle. Avoid strong dripping or spraying water that could drench their feathers and overwhelm them. A slow drip, fine mist, or small fountain is ideal.
Do hummingbirds bathe more in summer?
Hummingbirds tend to bathe more frequently during hot summer months to cool themselves and manage overheating. Providing clean fresh water daily is especially important in summer when high temperatures increase their hydration needs. Having multiple small baths around your yard will encourage more bathing.
Can ants harm hummingbird baths?
Ants can be attracted to the sugar water in hummingbird nectar feeders. They may march along the hanging wire and discover the nearby bath. Ants can contaminate the water with debris or even drown. Placing nectar feeders further from baths and wiping down wires can help reduce ants.
Do hummingbirds bathe in the rain?
Hummingbirds can and will bathe in rain. Light misty rain provides an opportunity for easy bathing as they perch on branches and splash in the water droplets. Heavy downpours may be less appealing or even dangerous for their small bodies and wings. But light showers offer convenient natural bathing conditions.
