What is the best bird bath fountain?

Bird bath fountains are a great way to attract birds to your yard and provide them with a source of drinking and bathing water. Choosing the right bird bath fountain requires some consideration of factors like size, materials, design, and special features. This article will go over the top things to look for when shopping for the best bird bath fountain.

What are the benefits of having a bird bath fountain?

There are several key benefits that bird bath fountains provide:

• Attract birds – Moving water attracts more birds than stationary water since it is easier for them to see and hear.
• Provide drinking water – Bird baths give birds a reliable source of clean, fresh drinking water, which is especially important in dry climates.
• Enable bathing – Birds need to bathe frequently to keep their feathers in good condition. Bird baths give them a safe place to do this.
• Create an appealing focal point – A lovely bird bath fountain can be an attractive decorative element in your garden. The sight and sound of birds using it adds visual interest.

Installing a bird bath fountain designed with features to meet birds’ needs will help attract more wild birds to your yard so you can enjoy observing them.

What size bird bath fountain do I need?

Bird bath fountains come in a range of sizes, from small tabletop models to larger ones designed to sit on the ground. Consider the following when deciding what size to get:

• Number of birds – The bigger your fountain, the more birds it can accommodate drinking and bathing at one time. Opt for a large size if you hope to attract a greater number of birds.
• Space available – Measure where you plan to put the bird bath to ensure you get one that will fit the allotted space.
• Depth – Shallow baths 1-3 inches deep are safest for birds. Make sure the fountain you choose isn’t too deep.
• Water capacity – Bigger basins hold more water so you won’t have to refill as frequently.

For most yards, a medium to large size fountain around 2-3 feet wide and 8-12 inches deep is ideal. This gives ample room for a few birds to use it at once.

What is the best material for bird bath fountains?

Bird bath fountains can be made from a variety of different materials. The main options are:

• Concrete – Durable and weather resistant while providing a natural stone-like look. Texture provides footing for birds.
• Metal – Often copper, wrought iron or cast iron. Sturdy option but can be prone to rusting.
• Plastic – Affordable and lightweight. Choose thicker plastic that won’t crack over time when exposed to elements.
• Ceramic/pottery – Attractive glazed finishes but more fragile than other materials. May chip with freezing temperatures.
• Glass – Sleek and modern looking but not as durable as other choices. Heavy and may crack.
• Composite wood – Made from mix of recycled plastics and wood. Low maintenance, doesn’t rot or splinter like real wood.

Concrete and composite wood are two of the best materials when it comes to durability and weather resistance for outdoor bird bath fountains. Metal is also a good choice provided it is a rust-resistant type.

What design styles are available for bird bath fountains?

You can find many different decorative styles when shopping for a bird bath fountain including:

• Pedestal – Features a basin set atop a tall pedestal, often made of concrete. Gives the fountain height.
• Mounted – Designed to mount securely on a post or wall. Great for small yards.
• Free-standing – Also known as ground or patio fountains. Basin sits directly on the ground rather than on a stand.
• Deck-mounted – Installs onto the deck railing and has a basin that hangs over the edge.
• Solar – Powered by solar panel and battery so no electric outlet required.
• Tabletop – Compact size sits on patio or yard table. Typically made of metal or ceramic.

The right style comes down to your space constraints, desired placement, and aesthetic preferences. Free-standing concrete, pedestal, or mounted fountains are popular choices for their visibility and flexibility in location.

What special features should I look for in a bird bath fountain?

Today’s bird bath fountains incorporate a variety of special features that make them more functional and better for attracting birds. Here are some useful features to consider:

• Heated basin – Keeps water from freezing in cold climates so birds can access it year-round.
• Fountain splash guard – Angled shield that prevents excessive splashing while still allowing birds to enjoy the moving water.
• Submersible pump – Quiet, energy efficient pump keeps water flowing without scaring birds away.
• Adjustable flow rate – Lets you control water movement from a trickle to stream based on your preferences.
• Programmable timer – Automatically turns fountain on and off at set times each day.
• UV treated plastic – Helps inhibit algae and bacterial growth to keep water cleaner.

Heated basins, splash guards, and submersible pumps are very useful additions for creating the most functional and birdfriendly fountain possible.

Where is the best placement for a bird bath fountain in a yard?

Choosing the right spot to install your bird bath fountain will increase bird visits. Recommended placement tips:

• Near trees/bushes – Gives birds shelter and perches to fly in from. They’ll feel safer with cover nearby.
• Away from feeders – Prevent issue of seeds and debris getting in the water. 15-20 feet away is ideal.
• Visible location – Place it where you’ll enjoy watching birds using it through a window. Avoid excessively shady areas.
• Near seating – Pick a spot where you can comfortably observe the fountain.
• Consider hose access – For easier filling and emptying.
• Level surface – Pick a spot that is flat so the fountain won’t tip and will work properly.

Finding the sweet spot that balances accessibility, safety, and visibility will result in a fountain placement that both you and birds will appreciate.

How often does a bird bath fountain need cleaning?

To keep the water in your bird fountain clean and prevent disease spread, regular cleaning is essential. Here are some general guidelines on cleaning frequency:

• Empty and scrub weekly – Empty all water, scrub inside with brush and non-toxic cleaner to remove organic debris and algae film.
• Change water 2-3 times per week – Dump all water and refill with fresh water every 2-3 days in summer, 1-2 times per week in winter.
• Clean with stain remover monthly – Using vinegar, hydrogen peroxide or bathroom cleaner to remove stains inside basin that develop.
• Deep clean seasonally – Do a thorough scrub down, limescale removal and sanitization at end of each season before storing.

Cleaning regularly is key! Aim to refresh the water at minimum every 2-3 days and do a full scrub weekly to keep your fountain hygienic.

What are the top 5 best bird bath fountains?

Based on quality, features, design and price, here are 5 of the best bird bath fountains:

Any of these top-rated bird bath fountains are sure to be a hit with local birds while also enhancing your garden’s beauty and providing enjoyment observing your new feathered visitors.

How much does a good bird bath fountain cost?

Cost for a bird bath fountain can range quite a bit, from $15 for small plastic fountains to over $400 for large, elaborate concrete pedestal fountains. In general, expect to pay:

• Small plastic fountain: $15 – $75
• Medium ceramic or metal fountain: $50 – $125
• Large concrete, stone or ceramic fountain: $100 – $250
• Extra large pedestal fountain: $250 – $400

Heated fountains and those with special features like pumps tend to be at the higher end of these ranges. Consider how prominent a role you want the bird bath to play in your garden when deciding how much to spend.

Do bird bath fountains need any special maintenance?

Beyond regular cleaning, bird bath fountains have a few maintenance needs:

• Monitor water level – Don’t let basin go empty and refill with fresh water frequently.
• Gentle basin cleaning – Use soft bristle brush and mild soap to avoid damaging finishes.
• Limescale removal – Soak/scrub with vinegar periodically to remove mineral buildup.
• Pump care – Clean pump filters, use pump saver in winter. Replace broken pumps.
• Seal concrete – Seal concrete fountains yearly to prevent cracks and stains.
• Touch up paint – Spot paint metal fountains as needed to prevent rust and deterioration.

With the proper care, a quality bird bath fountain should provide years of service and visual enjoyment for your garden.

Conclusion

Installing a bird bath fountain can be a great way to invite more birds into your outdoor space. Consider the size, materials, design styles and special features when choosing one. Opt for durable, high quality materials, ideally with options like heaters, splash guards, adjustable flow rates and timers. Position your fountain thoughtfully, keep it clean, and perform preventative maintenance to get the most benefit.

A beautiful bird bath fountain adds lots of charm to a garden, and seeing it frequented by happy wild birds enjoying the water will bring you great joy. Paying attention to key factors like size, materials, placement and maintenance will ensure your fountain functions optimally and safely for visiting feathered friends.