Bird baths are a great way to attract birds to your yard. The sight and sounds of colorful, flitting birds can brighten up your outdoor space. Bird baths provide birds with a reliable water source for drinking and bathing. But what kinds of birds are likely to visit and use your bird bath?
Small Songbirds
Many small songbirds are frequent visitors to bird baths. These include:
- Sparrows
- Finches
- Chickadees
- Nuthatches
- Wrens
- Warblers
Small songbirds like sparrows, finches, chickadees, and wrens cannot bathe in deep water since they are so tiny. Shallow bird baths with a maximum depth of 1-2 inches are ideal for these species. Small songbirds prefer bird baths with gentle slopes or a graded edge that provides easy access to the water.
Sparrows
There are many different sparrow species, and most of them will visit shallow bird baths. Chipping sparrows, song sparrows, white-crowned sparrows, and house sparrows are common species attracted to bird baths. Sparrows like to perch on the edge of bird baths and take quick sips of water or brief baths.
Finches
American goldfinches, house finches, and purple finches will flock to bird baths, especially in hot weather. Finches like to perch on the rim and dip their heads to sip water. They prefer very shallow water of just 1 inch deep and like gently sloped baths they can easily stand in.
Chickadees
Both black-capped chickadees and Carolina chickadees are acrobatic little birds that love splashing in bird baths. Chickadees like shaded bird baths near trees and appreciate if there are small perches or stones in the bath they can stand on.
Nuthatches
Red-breasted nuthatches and white-breasted nuthatches frequent backyard bird baths. They perch on the edge and sometimes upside down as they dip in for water. Nuthatches are bold birds and may come to baths quite close to humans or your home.
Wrens
Carolina wrens and Bewick’s wrens like to hunt for insects around shallow birdbaths and also dip in for quick baths. They prefer baths placed near shrubs or low cover. House wrens may visit baths too but are shyer than other wren species.
Warblers
Warblers passing through on migration such as yellow warblers, palm warblers, and common yellowthroats will stop at birdbaths. Northern parula warblers and yellow-rumped warblers may visit baths in winter if they are in your area. Warblers like shallow baths with vegetation nearby to perch in.
Larger Perching Birds
Some bigger songbirds that nest in backyards also use bird baths, including:
- Robins
- Catbirds
- Mockingbirds
- Thrushes
- Orioles
- Tanagers
These species can bathe in deeper water than tiny songbirds. They prefer baths at least 2 inches deep. Gentle slopes allow them to wade in gradually to wet their feathers.
Robins
American robins are very common users of backyard bird baths. They like baths placed in open areas where they can scan for dangers as they bathe. Robins splash water over their wings and like baths at least 2-3 inches deep.
Catbirds
Gray catbirds dunk under shallow birdbaths and sing sweetly as they preen water through their feathers. Birdbaths near dense shrubs offer cover for shy catbirds.
Mockingbirds
Northern mockingbirds are bold, territorial birds who may claim a favored birdbath as part of their territory. Mockingbirds like to perch on edges and may flash their wings if another bird approaches.
Thrushes
Thrushes such as wood thrushes, hermit thrushes, and American robins forage on the ground near birdbaths and bathe in them too. Baths near trees offer cover for more secretive thrush species.
Orioles
Colorful Baltimore orioles and orchard orioles drink and bathe in shallow birdbaths, especially on hot days. Orioles like orange halves or fruit placed near the bath.
Tanagers
Scarlet tanagers and summer tanagers visit backyard birdbaths during migration and the breeding season. Tanagers prefer shadier baths located near the canopy of mature trees.
Woodpeckers
Woodpeckers occasionally visit bird baths, more so in hotter climates. Species attracted to baths may include:
- Downy woodpeckers
- Red-bellied woodpeckers
- Yellow-bellied sapsuckers
- Northern flickers
Woodpeckers like larger bird baths at least 3 inches deep. They tend to perch on edges and drink rather than bathe. Woodpeckers prefer baths on open ground which they can approach by flying in or hopping along the ground.
Jays and Crows
Larger corvid birds that may visit birdbaths include:
- Blue jays
- American crows
- Steller’s jays
- Common ravens
They prefer deeper baths of 3 or more inches. Large, open bird baths suit them well. Jays and crows are intelligent birds and may be suspicious of new baths. They like to inspect baths thoroughly before bathing in them.
Doves and Pigeons
Doves and pigeons drink from bird baths more often than bathing in them. Species attracted to baths include:
- Mourning doves
- Eurasian collared-doves
- Rock pigeons
- Band-tailed pigeons
They prefer larger, deep baths with a gradual slope. Doves usually perch on the edge to drink without getting their body wet. Having a brick or flat stone in the center for them to stand on can help.
Hummingbirds
Hummingbirds don’t bathe in bird baths, but they do like to fly in and perch on edges to drink. Keeping a birdbath filled with fresh water near hummingbird feeders will attract these tiny birds. Very shallow baths with multiple perches suit them well.
Ducks and Geese
If you live near water, ducks and geese may visit larger backyard bird baths. Mallards, northern pintails, hooded mergansers, Canada geese, and other waterfowl species drink and bathe in big, open birdbaths.
They prefer baths they can swim in that are over 12 inches deep with gently sloped sides. Large stones or bricks around part of the edge provide secure footing as they get in and out of the bath.
Bird Bath Location
Where you place your birdbath in your yard or garden can make a difference in how often birds use it. Here are some tips for optimal bird bath placement:
- Place the bath in an open area so birds have a clear view of any dangers as they bathe.
- Nearby trees or shrubs provide cover for more timid bird species.
- Avoid placing right next to a building, or birds may be hesitant to use it.
- Choose a location in light to partial shade so the water doesn’t get too hot.
- Elevate the bath at least 2-3 feet above ground so cats and other predators are less likely to ambush bathing birds.
Placing your birdbath where you can watch it from indoors brings you the most enjoyment. Baths placed in view of ground level or second story windows get the most use by birds and watching humans too!
Bird Bath Style
The shape, depth, and design of your bird bath influence which bird species feel comfortable using it. Consider these tips when choosing a birdbath style:
- Shallow baths 1-2 inches deep attract small birds like sparrows, chickadees, and finches.
- Deeper baths at least 3 inches deep suit larger birds like robins and jays.
- A graded slope provides secure footing for birds wading into the water.
- Roughened interior surfaces give birds grip while they bathe.
- Baths with gentle curves appeal to most backyard birds.
- Angular, modern baths may intimidate shy species.
- Pedestal baths with above-ground basins prevent surprise attacks by cats.
- Incorporate a small recirculating fountain to keep water moving.
Birdbaths replicating natural forms, made from interesting stone or finished wood blends nicely into landscapes and appeals to a variety of wild birds.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance keeps your bird bath clean and safe for visiting birds. Follow these tips:
- Empty and scrub baths with mild soap and a plastic brush each week to remove dirt, algae, and other contaminants.
- Thoroughly rinse soap away before refilling.
- Prevent mosquitoes by changing the water every 2-3 days.
- Refill with fresh, clean water when the level gets low.
- In winter climates, remove baths and store them inside to prevent ice damage.
Take care handling birdbaths in very hot or very cold temperatures to protect your skin. Wearing gloves when cleaning is recommended. Keeping up with birdbath maintenance ensures your bath remains clean, inviting, and safe for wild birds visiting your yard.
Conclusion
Installing a birdbath in your yard or garden is a great way to attract wild birds for viewing and enjoyment. All different kinds of birds use bird baths to drink, bathe, and preen. Small perching birds frequent shallow baths they can stand in. Larger birds need deeper baths where they can hop in and splash around. The placement, style, and maintenance of your birdbath all factor into how often local birds will use it.
Watching colorful songbirds fluttering in to bathe and sing is a delightful way to bring wildlife into your outdoor space. A backyard birdbath provides needed water for birds and gives you hours of entertainment observing their antics. With a well-placed birdbath and proper care, your yard is sure to become a favorite haunt for many fascinating wild birds in your neighborhood!
